Complaining

O. T. #319  "Complaining"
July 11, 2014
Numbers 11-Part 1
And when the people complained, it displeased the LORD: and the LORD heard it; and His anger was kindled; and the fire of the LORD burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp.  Numbers 11:1

LET IT GLOW

I find myself complaining about things more often than giving thanks to my God. Often, I get caught up with those criticizing. Ouch! His mercy does not strike me with fire and burn me up. He puts up with so much from me. Yet, I am not alone. Israel did the same thing.

The cloud was moving and the people were scurrying, ready to go. After spending about a year camped at Mt. Sinai, they were finally leaving. Leaving the past behind-the golden calf, the lack of faith. Hmmm. Maybe not.

It was less than 200 miles between Mt. Sinai and Kadesh. Moses listed 20 stops between these two places. The Sinai area is dotted with mountains, rugged valleys, and sandy ground; but their journey was never too long or difficult, for the cloud of the LORD was upon them.

The Lord provided all that was needed for His children to make the journey to the Promised Land. They ate meat and bread (quail and manna), had water to drink, shoes that never wore out. What more could they want?

How about us, are we grateful for the food and drink that God gives us? What about our shoes, ladies? How many pairs do we have in our closet? Clothes?


LET IT GROW

And when the people complained...
It did not say: after a week passed, after the rugged terrain wore them out, after the scorching sun beat down on them the first afternoon. No passing of time is mentioned, no hardship is written, no lack of their needs being met. God was their provider and is ours today.

In the Hebrew, complained (anan, pronounced aw-nan') means to mourn.

Do we do the same thing? Are we discontent with our situation, with what God has given us, reaping what we have sown?

What happened whenever the people complained?

• It displeased the LORD.
• The LORD heard their complaining.
• His anger was kindled.
• Fire of the LORD burnt among them and consumed those in the uttermost parts of the camp.

What the cause of this complaining was, we know not. Maybe it was the length of the way. But surely no people had ever less cause for murmuring; they had God among them, and miracles of goodness were continually wrought in their behalf. His extraordinary kindness was lost on such an ungrateful and rebellious people. divine justice was necessarily incensed against such inexcusable conduct. (Clarke's Commentary)

Are there times that our behavior is inexcusable? Yet, God forgives us.

Philippians 2:14 says, Do all things without murmurings and disputings.

Lord, have mercy on us sinners, complainers. Help us to be grateful for all you do for us and provide for us.

LET IT GO

Stop complaining, Linda.

Give thanks in all things.