They angered Him also at the waters of strife, so that it went ill with Moses on account of them; because they rebelled against His Spirit, so that he spoke rashly with his lips. (Psalm 106:32-33)

In the previous devotion, we highlighted Moses’ humility and self-sacrifice on behalf of God’s people; how he repeatedly interceded on their behalf and, in time, led them to the banks of the Jordan and the land of Canaan. We also acknowledged that, even though he was an incredibly meek and patient man, there were times that the people’s constant griping got to him. The verses above refer to the worst of those times, when their complaining and badgering provoked such an angry outburst from Moses that God would not allow him to enter the pleasant land.

We’re referring to the time when, after Miriam’s death, there was no water and the people began to complain. Instead of speaking to the Rock as he was instructed, Moses became so angry with the people that, in a rare display of unbridled emotion, he struck the rock instead. The water flowed, but Moses had made a terrible choice. It is written, “Because you did not believe Me, to hallow Me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land which I have given them” (Numbers 20:12).

There are many theories as to why this mistake was punished so harshly but, for today, let’s focus on this issue — Moses’ harsh words and hasty actions did not sanctify the Lord in the sight of the people. For letting his temper get the best of him in this particular situation, “it went ill with Moses on account of them.”

Leaders are people before they are leaders; yet God appoints them to lead other people. They have the same challenges, the same temptations and struggles, and yet, they are expected to rise above these challenges and present a proper example of what a servant of God is supposed to be. Therefore, pastors and leaders should always strive to temper their emotions so as not to dishonor God before the people. That is not to say that they should be plastic and phony; to the contrary, they should be transparent and meek. That said, leaders are held to a very high standard and must always remember that, as God’s representative to the people, they must guide His people with care. Regardless of the circumstances, they must remain sensitive to the Voice of God so as not to make poor choices. In short, be careful not to profane His Name in the sight of the people — the price tag for doing so is lofty.

Blessings and Shalom,  

Bill