“But if ye will not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you; then it shall come to pass, that those which ye let remain of them shall be pricks in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall vex you in the land wherein ye dwell.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and provides an account of the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. In this particular verse, God is instructing the Israelites regarding the conquest of the land of Canaan, which was the land promised to them by God.
Explanation:
Driving out the inhabitants: In this verse, God commands the Israelites to drive out the inhabitants of the land of Canaan. This command is reiterated throughout the Old Testament as God desired to establish the Israelites as a distinct and holy nation. The presence of the Canaanite nations, with their idolatrous practices and sinful ways, posed a spiritual and moral threat to the Israelites.
Consequences of failure: God warns the Israelites of the consequences if they fail to drive out the inhabitants. If they allow the Canaanites to remain, they will become a source of trouble and irritation. The imagery used in the verse-pricks in the eyes and thorns in the sides-illustrates the constant annoyance and distress the Israelites will experience from these remaining inhabitants. The Canaanites will be a continual source of trouble and temptation, leading the Israelites away from their covenant relationship with God.
Spiritual Application:
- Holiness and separation: The command to drive out the inhabitants of the land carries a spiritual lesson for believers today. As Christians, we are called to be separate from the sinful practices and influences of the world. Just as the Israelites were to maintain their distinctiveness as God’s chosen people, we are called to live holy lives, separated unto God. This involves avoiding and renouncing sinful behaviors and influences that can lead us astray.
- Consequences of compromise: The warning given to the Israelites also serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of compromising with sin. If we allow sinful practices or influences to remain in our lives, they can become stumbling blocks that hinder our spiritual growth and cause constant vexation and trouble. It is important for believers to examine their lives regularly, identify areas of compromise, and seek God’s strength and guidance to overcome them.
- Trusting in God’s provision: Throughout the book of Numbers, God demonstrates His faithfulness and provision for the Israelites. The command to drive out the inhabitants was accompanied by the assurance of God’s presence and assistance in the conquest of the land. Similarly, in our lives, when faced with challenges or temptations, we can trust in God’s provision and guidance. He is faithful to help us overcome obstacles and lead us to a place of victory.
In conclusion, Numbers 34:20 reminds us of the importance of maintaining holiness, the potential consequences of compromise, and the need to trust in God’s provision. By driving out the sinful influences in our lives and relying on God’s strength, we can experience His blessings and walk in the path He has set before us.
