“But the whole assembly talked about stoning them. Then the glory of the Lord appeared at the tent of meeting to all the Israelites. The Lord said to Moses, ‘How long will these people treat me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the signs I have performed among them?’”
– Numbers 14:10,11
While the Isrealites were busy worshipping the golden calf they had fashioned, Moses came down from the mountain and beheld their debauchery. In response, he ground their idol into a powder and made the people drink it. Then he separated those who were still loyal to God and began moving again — with a faithful remnant — toward the Promised Land. When they got closer to their destination, twelve spies were sent into the new territory to scope it out, but ten of them came back and said there was no way they could inhabit it because it was too dangerous. They didn’t listen to Joshua and Caleb, who urged them to have faith in the power of God to deliver it into their hands. Instead, they focused on the defeat spoken by the majority. Even worse, they decided amongst themselves to oust Moses and appoint a new leader, so they moved to stone him! In an incomprehensible turn of events, the very one who had pleaded with the Lord to save them was now a target of murder at their hands. Upon seeing this, God became very angry and was ready to destroy them again, but shockingly, Moses came to their defense a second time! His powerful display of sacrificial leadership reminds me of Stephen in the New Testament, who begged for the pardon of his executioners as he was dying, and of Jesus, who asked His Father to forgive the ones putting Him to death because they knew not what they did. My friend, Moses exemplifies what it means to live a life that’s different! While millions of people are allowing their hearts to become hard in anger and bitterness, you can follow in his footsteps and embrace radical mercy. By remembering that you, too, have the heart of a sinner, you are free to stand in the Lord’s presence and beseech Him for forgiveness on behalf of His people. As a bold leader in His Kingdom, you are empowered to give yourself up for those you lead, even if they harm you, with the faith that your sacrifice will draw them to repentance and a better future. Put others first — like Jesus did — and you will inherit a more meaningful and abundant existence as a result! |
Prayer
Jesus, I know that only you can supply radical mercy, so I ask you to fill my heart and life with it today.
Reflection
Have you ever shown someone radical mercy? How did it impact you and change them?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
Enjoyed the study. The patience and concern of Moses for God’s people.
The determination of Joshua and Caleb to trust in the Lord. God bless you and your ministry.
Ps. please let me know the time and the channel of your ministry on Sunday morning in Ontario, Canada.
Thank you.