Numbers 20:6
And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they fell upon their faces: and the glory of the Lord appeared unto them.
Numbers 20:6 (KJV)
Context
The book of Numbers records the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. This verse takes place in the wilderness of Zin, near the end of their 40 years of wandering, which resulted from their disobedience and lack of faith. The people are complaining to Moses and Aaron because there is no water, and they blame their leaders for their suffering.
Moses and Aaron leave the assembly and go to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. The tabernacle was the portable tent of worship that served as the meeting place between God and His people during their journey. By going there, the leaders show that their first response to crisis is to seek God, not to answer the people in their own strength.
Meaning
When Moses and Aaron reach the tabernacle, they fall upon their faces. This posture is a sign of humility, reverence, and desperate prayer. They recognize God’s authority and submit themselves completely to Him. Their action teaches that approaching God with a humble heart opens the way to receive His guidance and favor.
Then the glory of the LORD appears to them. This glory is the visible manifestation of God’s presence, often described as a radiant cloud or brilliant light. It is a sign that God is with His people and that He communicates with His chosen leaders. The appearance of the glory affirms their calling and reminds them of God’s power and authority.
Biblical connections
This event prepares for what follows in the chapter, where God gives instructions for providing water from the rock. The leaders’ immediate recourse to God in the face of difficulty is a model of dependence on Him. Throughout Scripture, God reveals His glory to those who earnestly seek Him, especially in times of need.
Application
Moses and Aaron’s response teaches us to approach God with reverence and humility. When we face problems, our first step should be to seek His presence through prayer and His Word, rather than relying on our own understanding. God is approachable, and He responds to those who earnestly seek Him.
Reverence and humility before God: Recognizing His authority and submitting ourselves before Him opens us up to experience His presence and receive His guidance.
Seeking God’s presence: We should prioritize spending time with God through prayer, worship, and studying His Word, just as Moses and Aaron went to the tabernacle.
God’s glory reveals His presence: Though we may not see a visible cloud or fire today, we can experience God’s presence through faith and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Confirmation of God’s calling: The glory of the LORD affirmed Moses and Aaron as chosen leaders. God equips and empowers those whom He calls, and we can trust Him to provide what we need for the roles He gives us.
Encountering God strengthens faith: Personal encounters with God, through His Word, prayer, or spiritual experiences, deepen our faith and equip us to serve Him more effectively.
Reflection
When we face opposition or difficult circumstances, do we rush to solve the problem ourselves, or do we first fall before God in humility? Moses and Aaron show us that seeking God’s presence is the proper first response to any crisis. God is faithful to reveal Himself to those who humbly seek Him, and His glory is a reminder of His ongoing relationship with His people.
