¹² And the Lord spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.

¹³ This is the water of Meribah; because the children of Israel strove with the Lord, and he was sanctified in them.

Numbers 20:12-13

Explanation:

God told Moses and Aaron why he was holding them accountable by not letting them lead the people into the promised land.

1. They did not trust God.
2. They did not uphold His holiness in front of the people.

God was not being petty about striking the rock versus speaking to the rock. He expected to be obeyed, trusted, worshipped as holy, and magnified for His provision before the people. Moses, in his anger, failed to do this. He was disobedient. Yet God was gracious to provide the water. Even still, there were consequences.

Application:

The Explore the Bible curriculum says in application to the truth of this passage: “God holds us accountable for our actions. Regardless if we are provoked, emotionally drained, or physically exhausted, no excuse exists for a lack of faithfulness among leaders and followers alike. We are to represent our Lord well in this world.”

Response:

1. Would you be comfortable with being imitated by those you influence this past week?
2. Is there an area of your life that you need to be obedient in where disobedience is the pattern?
3. Take a few moments to search your heart, and confess disobedience and unfaithfulness to the Lord.