BibleProject | One Story That Leads to Jesusનમૂનો

Have you ever gotten exactly what you asked for, only to discover that what you wanted was actually no good? Today’s reading features several stories of people getting what they want, only to end up in tragedy situations.

First, the Israelites choose to trust the 10 spies’ terrifying report about Canaan rather than God’s promises. After decades of wilderness wandering, they’re looking across the Jordan River into the promised land—they’re right there! But they refuse to enter.

Whipped into a frenzy of fear, they think their best option is to return to slavery in Egypt. This betrayal grieves and angers God, but Moses intercedes for the people, urging God to stay true to his nature and promises. Interestingly, God does relent, but he also remains true to his word. He gives the rebellious Israelites what they said they wanted: to die in the wilderness instead of entering the promised land.

Then, a Levite named Korah aspires to become a priest, and his co-conspirators, Dathan and Abiram, want better land. So Moses turns them over to their own desires. You want the priestly responsibility? Okay, but know God will judge you according to a higher standard. You want to put your trust in physical property? Okay, but the property will end up owning you—the ground splits open and swallows the rebels whole.

God is slow to anger, but he does not neglect justice. Watch the video to learn about the connection between God’s anger, justice, and love.

Reflection Questions

• Reflect on God’s responses to human evil in the biblical story so far. How have you seen God be slow to anger?
• In the offerings instruction from Numbers 15, when does God say the Israelites will offer these sacrifices? What does this suggest about God’s commitment to his people and the promised land?