Date: 29-May-2024
Name: Flo
Topic: TO SPEAK OR STRIKE
Content:
There were two occasions when God empowered Moses to call forth water from the rock.
The first was at Horeb, early in the Israelites 40 year trek through the wilderness. At that time, Moses was instructed by God to “strike the rock,” and water would come out of it for the people to drink (Exodus 17). And Moses obeyed.
38 years later, the children of the generation who had complained against Moses at Horeb, now complained at Meribah. The sins of the fathers were passed on to the sons. Complaining is infectious!
This second time, God told Moses to “speak to the rock” and it would yield water. But Moses disobeyed. Nearly 40 years of the Israelites’ complaining had taken a toll on him. So Moses, took his rod and struck the rock twice, yelling, “Hear now, you rebels! Must we bring water for you out of this rock?” (Num. 20:10).
Moses acted out of frustration and anger. He not only struck the rock rather than speaking to it, he took credit for the miracle: “Must we fetch water for you?”
The Lord still honored Moses before the people, allowing water to gush forth from the rock in spite of his disobedience. But Moses and Aaron would pay the price for not considering the Lord’s holiness before the people. Neither of them would enter the Promised Land!
The issue is not whether to speak or strike. The issue is about obeying God’s Word and giving Him all the credit for what that obedience brings forth. The issue is whether we will act out of frustration or faith.
Prayer Points:
Prayer Points
1. Father, forgive me for the times I have acted out of frustration and taken credit for Your work. Help me to turn back to You in obedience and humility.
2. Father, increase my faith so that I may act out of faith and not frustration, believing in Your power to work miracles.
3. Father, help me to always give You the glory for the successes in my life, recognizing that all good things come from You.
4. Father, cultivate in me a spirit of patience, that I may endure trials without giving in to anger or frustration.
5. Father, help me to control my emotions, especially in moments of frustration, so that I may respond in a manner that honors You.
6. Father, fill my heart with gratitude, that I may remember to thank You in every situation and for every blessing.
7. Ask God wisdom to discern Your voice and the courage to act upon it, no matter the circumstances.
8. Lord, grant me the strength and humility to obey Your Word in all circumstances, trusting in Your wisdom and guidance.
