“But even a whole month, until it come out at your nostrils, and it be loathsome unto you: because that ye have despised the LORD which is among you, and have wept before him, saying, Why came we forth out of Egypt?”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and it provides a historical account of the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. In this particular verse, the Israelites are complaining about their hardships in the wilderness and expressing their longing for the comforts of Egypt.
Discontentment and Complaints: The Israelites had been delivered from slavery in Egypt by God’s mighty hand, witnessed His miraculous acts, and received His provision in the wilderness. However, they allowed discontentment to fill their hearts, leading to constant complaints. They grumbled about the manna provided by God, desiring the variety of food they had in Egypt. Their complaints were not only directed at Moses but also against God Himself.
Despising the Lord: The verse states that the Israelites “despised the LORD which is among you.” Their complaints and longing for Egypt revealed a lack of trust and gratitude towards God. Despite His presence and provision, they failed to recognize His goodness and sovereignty. Their discontentment and desire for the past reflected a rejection of the God who had brought them out of Egypt.
Consequences of Ungratefulness: God responds to their complaints by granting their request for meat, but He also pronounces a punishment. He promises to provide them with so much meat that it will come out of their nostrils, and they will find it loathsome. This punishment serves as a reminder of the severity of their ungratefulness and the consequences of despising the Lord.
Lessons for us: The account in Numbers 11:20 serves as a cautionary lesson for us today. It reminds us of the importance of contentment, gratitude, and trust in our relationship with God. We are called to be thankful for the provisions and blessings He provides in our lives, even in difficult circumstances. Grumbling and complaining can lead to a distorted perspective, blinding us to the faithfulness and goodness of God.
Trusting God’s Guidance: The Israelites’ complaints also reveal a lack of trust in God’s guidance and plan for their lives. They questioned why they came out of Egypt and expressed a desire to return to their former state of slavery. Similarly, we are encouraged to trust in God’s leading and purpose for our lives, even when we face challenges or uncertainties. We must remember that God’s plans for us are ultimately for our good (Jeremiah 29:11).
In summary, Numbers 11:20 highlights the Israelites’ ungratefulness and complaints in the wilderness, revealing a lack of trust and appreciation for God’s provisions. The verse serves as a reminder for us to cultivate gratitude, contentment, and trust in God’s guidance in our own lives.
