Day 31 – Numbers: Wandering in the Wilderness

Reading: Numbers 15:1 to Numbers 21:35

“But Moses and Aaron fell face down on the ground. “O God,” they pleaded, “you are the God who gives breath to all creatures. Must you be angry with all the people when only one man sins?” Numbers 16:22 NLT

During Israel’s wandering in the Wilderness, God gave additional regulations for camp life. He taught them to rely on Him for their needs – from food to victory in war. But Israel’s complaints against God and criticism of Moses’s authority resulted in severe punishment.  Over 14,000 people died as a result of rebellions against Moses, like Korah’s rebellion which included the deaths of Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and their households, along with 250 false priests.

We learn a vital lesson about intersession from Moses as he intercedes for those who turned against him. He loved Israel and even their doubt, criticism, and rebellion against him did not stop him from pleading for their lives. Do we intercede for those who act like this towards us? This is a beautiful foreshadowing of how Jesus and the Holy Spirit intercede on our behalf and teach us to intercede for others. Love thy neighbour isn’t a suggestion, we are meant to love those who act wrongfully against us by praying and interceding for them.

Prayer: Father, thank You for showing us how Moses interceded for Israel and that we should do the same for those who sin against us. When we want to take offence, remind us of Korah and that Moses chose to intercede for them instead of fighting. Help us to love people the way You require. Amen.