READING: Numbers 21-24
“But the people became impatient because of the journey.”
Numbers 21:4
The people of God continued their journey toward the Promised Land, but they detoured around the land of the king of Edom, who had refused to give the Hebrews passage through his territory (Num. 20:14-21). That refusal meant the Hebrews had to take a longer and indirect route—even backtracking, in fact—through the desert. This was clearly a detour for a people who thought they were close to the land that had been committed to them. That almost explains why the people “became impatient because of the journey” (Num. 21:4).
Their impatience led to frustration with the journey, which then led to murmuring and complaining: “Why have you led us up from Egypt to die in the wilderness? There is no bread or water, and we detest this wretched food!” (Num. 21:5). They not only cried that they had no water and food, but they also complained over the manna that God had been graciously giving them. Indeed, they even wanted to go back to Egypt.
And, it all began with a detour that led to impatience. Impatience became frustration, which became complaining, which revealed an untrusting people—and which led to God’s dramatic judgment of “poisonous snakes among the people” (Num. 21:6). Only God’s grace-filled intervention of a bronze serpent mounted on a pole healed the people.
Here’s why I’m struck by the text today: I’m an impatient person, and I don’t like it when my plans get diverted. My impatience, though, could lead to frustration . . . and complaining . . . and judgment.
God, make me patient today.
ACTION STEPS:
- Be aware of your impatience today. Halt it before it becomes frustration.
- If God has diverted your plans, trust Him.
PRAYER: “Lord, help me to stay focused on You today, regardless of where the journey takes me.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Numbers 25-28
