“And say thou unto the people, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow, and ye shall eat flesh: for ye have wept in the ears of the Lord, saying, Who shall give us flesh to eat? for it was well with us in Egypt: therefore the Lord will give you flesh, and ye shall eat.”
Context: Numbers 11 records the Israelites’ complaints in the wilderness after they had been delivered from Egypt. They were dissatisfied with the manna provided by God and expressed their desire for meat. Moses, burdened by the people’s complaints, cried out to God, who responded by promising to provide meat for them.
Sanctify yourselves: In response to the Israelites’ complaints, Moses is instructed to tell the people to sanctify themselves. This call to sanctification was meant to prepare the people spiritually and morally for the provision that God was about to bestow upon them. Sanctification involves setting oneself apart for God’s purposes, purifying oneself from sin, and seeking a closer relationship with God.
The people’s complaints: The Israelites had grown tired of eating manna, the miraculous bread from heaven that sustained them in the wilderness. They longed for the variety and taste of the food they had in Egypt, forgetting the slavery and bondage they experienced there. Their complaints reflected a lack of faith in God’s provision and a desire to return to their former way of life.
God’s response: Despite their ingratitude, God responds to the Israelites’ complaints. He acknowledges their desire for meat and promises to provide it for them. God’s provision of meat demonstrates His faithfulness and His willingness to meet the needs of His people. However, it is important to note that their craving for meat also serves as a test of their obedience and trust in God’s provision.
Key Lessons:
- Gratitude and Contentment: The Israelites’ discontentment with the manna reminds us of the importance of gratitude and contentment in our lives. It is easy to become dissatisfied with what God has provided and long for what we perceive as better or more enjoyable. However, cultivating an attitude of gratitude and contentment helps us appreciate God’s provision and trust in His wisdom and timing.
- Sanctification and Preparation: Before receiving the blessing of meat, the Israelites were called to sanctify themselves. This teaches us the importance of preparing ourselves spiritually and morally for the blessings and provisions of God. Sanctification involves examining our hearts, confessing and turning away from sin, and seeking to live in obedience to God’s Word.
- God’s Faithfulness: Despite the Israelites’ complaints and lack of faith, God remained faithful to His promise to provide for them. This reminds us of God’s unwavering faithfulness to His people, even when they are unfaithful. We can trust in God’s provision, knowing that He will fulfill His promises in His perfect timing.
Application: As we reflect on Numbers 11:18, let us examine our hearts for any areas of discontentment or ingratitude. May we cultivate a spirit of gratitude and contentment, trusting in God’s provision and being mindful of His faithfulness. Let us also seek sanctification, preparing ourselves spiritually and morally to receive God’s blessings and provisions in our lives.
Note: It is important to study the Bible in its entirety and consider the broader context of each passage to gain a comprehensive understanding of God’s message.
