Do you recall a time of an “I want” moment? We all have them. It can be people, places, or things in our lives that will satisfy us. However, do these things really satisfy us? No, they don’t. If anything, they probably have more disappointment than satisfaction. Let’s go to Numbers 11: 1, 4-6. What were the Israelites complaining about? What did the Israelites wish that they had? What did they claim they had lost?
They are pretty discouraged. They have been in this one area for one year. One year of camping. Honestly, I don’t know if I could do that. They were angry at the same God that had heard their cries and rescued them, which is the same God that has provided manna and quail for them to eat. Did you notice the word rabble in verse 4? This word means other people. You can find this also in Exodus 12:38. They were the ones to start complaining. They were discontent. Then the Israelites fell suit. Read 1 Corinthians 15:33. What does this say? Yes! Bad company corrupts good character. We have to be careful with who we let in our lives. WE have to be careful with those whose disbelief and distrust of God negatively affect our attitude or faith. What doubts or discouragement have others planted into your life?
When others come into our lives, they are watching closing. They are watching how we struggle and still follow God. They don’t understand the ways of God because they are still blind to God’s ways. Their eyes are not open up yet. Read Numbers 11: 18-23. What did God tell Moses to share with the people about what was coming? How long did God say He would send enough meat to last? What effect did God say that the meat would have on the people?
Read 1 Timothy 6:6. What does this verse mean to you? Especially about the “I wants” in your life? What do you have to gain by being content with whatever God has already given to you? What does this verse mean to you? How does it pertain to your “I wants” in your life? What do you have to gain by being content with whatever God has already given to you?
Our feelings are not wrong. However, we do not want them to go unchecked or unchallenged. We don’t want them to be the driver in our lives. When we let our feelings drive, they can lead us down the wrong path.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your guidance. Thank you for being the loving, caring, disciplinary father to us. I pray that we will be content with where you have us.
In Jesus Name
Amen
