Probably one of Israel’s greatest pitfalls, along with Idolatry and Adultery, was their discontentment and dissatisfaction. Time and again we read about their murmuring and complaining against the Lord and against the leadership He set in place, see Exodus 16:7-8; Deuteronomy 1:27 and numerous other scriptures, (and it is quite evident that God takes it personal when people speak against His ordained leadership). Their grumbling, complaining, and murmuring displeased the Lord bringing judgment instead of blessing upon them, see Numbers 11:1. Yes at times God answered their dissatisfaction by allowing them to have their way, but it was to their detriment as is seen in Numbers 14:2, 26-45; Psalm 106:15; and their story is written as a model and a warning (see 1 Corinthians 10:11) that we should not fall into the same trap, failing to recall what God has done in the past and to remember the promises He has made for the future while sinking into the present circumstances and surroundings with murmuring, complaining, and grumbling! Rather as God’s people we are told to “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” 1 Thessalonians 5:18. Paul said “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content” Philippians 4:11. Always remember that “godliness with contentment is great gain” 1 Timothy 6:6.
The problem
(Author unknown)
We mutter and sputter;
We fume and we spurt.
We mumble and grumble;
Our feelings get hurt.
We can’t understand things;
Our vision grows dim,
When all that we need,
Is a moment with Him.
The answer
(By Rose Hill)
I thank You Lord that You will keep,
And watch and guard us as Your sheep.
You turn Your attention to our needs,
And enlighten us in all our deeds.
You lift up Your countenance on what we’ve done,
And give us a heart of peace as life’s race we run.
(See Numbers 6:24-26)
Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright 1982 by Thomas nelson Co. Used by permission.