And die in the mount whither thou goest up, and be gathered unto thy people; as Aaron thy brother died in mount Hor, and was gathered unto his people: Because ye trespassed against me among the children of Israel at the waters of Meribah-Kadesh, in the wilderness of Zin; because ye sanctified me not in the midst of the children of Israel. Yet thou shalt see the land before thee; but thou shalt not go thither unto the land which I give the children of Israel.

(Deu 32:50-52)

Explanation:

As we studied yesterday, Moses was commanded to go into the mountain to die because God had forbid him to come into the promised land. Why? Because of what happened at Meribah.

And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock? And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also. 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. This is the water of Meribah; because the children of Israel strove with the LORD, and he was sanctified in them.

(Num 20:10-13)

It may seem to some a strict punishment that God was laying on Moses and Aaron.  God is just in His judgement, and sees not only our behavior but also our hearts.  God is right to hold his people accountable, and the Bible is clear about God’s expectation of leaders.

My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.

(Jas 3:1-2)

Application:

Leaders are influencers.  They influence with their words, attitudes, actions and resources.  As the leader goes, so tend to go those who the leader leads.  With this stewardship comes a greater accountability.

Response:

• How are you leading with your words, attitudes, actions and resources? 
• If you were being perfectly imitated by those you influence, would your family/organization/church/business be better or worse? 
• Take some time to evaluate your influence today!