In Numbers 11, we see God’s people complaining in the wilderness, remembering how good they had it in slavery!
Bible Study:
The setting: God’s people have been set free from slavery in Egypt, for God had heard their cry, and rescued them, bringing them out with a mighty triumph! They had experienced the power of the blood of the passover lamb, and they had witnessed his mighty miracles: the parting of the Red Sea, a pillar of fire by night, and a cloud by day to guide them. But there are hard things about this life, too, for they are trudging through the dessert, eating only manna.
Read Numbers 11:1-15 and consider the following questions.
1. What happened in verses 1-3? What does complaining reveal?
2. In Numbers 11:4-6, what were the people craving? What was their idol? Think about the strong cravings of your idol(s).
3. In verses 5-6, what do they remember, and what do they forget?
4. How do you deceive yourself and give into your idol(s)? This question, if taken slowly, can help shed light and set you free.
5. What does Moses say to the Lord in verses 14-15? CHALLENGE QUESTION. How was Jesus “a better Moses?”
Read Numbers 11:31-35, and consider these questions:
1. Describe what happens here. What phrases stick out to you and why?
2. What do you crave besides God? What deceitful thoughts do you have in the moments of craving?
3. How could you allow God to meet the above need? How could you speak to your soul?
