READING: Numbers 11:1-13:33
Today’s reading is filled with leadership burdens. The people were complaining—apparently, loudly—particularly because they wanted food like they had had in Egypt. Aaron and Miriam were likely jealous of Moses’ authority; at a minimum, they questioned whether he was the only one hearing from God. Then, most of the spies who went into the Promised Land allowed fear to capture them as they pushed against taking the land God had promised them.
Complaints and criticisms. Jealousy and rivalry. Fear and faithlessness. It’s no wonder Moses asked God, “What did I do to deserve the burden of all these people?” (Num 11:11). They were wearing him out as his leading God’s people took its toll on him. With wisdom and grace, then, God told Moses to call out 70 recognized leaders on whom He would put His Spirit—and these 70 would then help Moses bear the burdens.
I love God’s church—but I would be untruthful if I said I had never wondered why God called me to lead people who are not always who they should be. Sometimes, ministry leadership is draining and defeating. It’s then, I’ve learned, that I must rely on other believers God has placed in my life to share the burden with me. My tendency to lead alone is not healthy, especially when God has given His Spirit to others to carry burdens with me.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Do you tend to carry burdens alone?
TODAY’S PRAYER: “Lord, remind me every day that I have Your Spirit and Your people to strengthen me.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Numbers 14:1-15:41
