“And Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married…” – Numbers 12:1 (KJV)
Moses’ siblings had turned against him and murmured because of the woman he married. Being unaware of this, Moses went about his work, heeding God’s instructions and taking care of the great responsibilities he had in leading the children of Israel.
Miriam, his sister who led the women in worship and praise after they crossed the Red Sea, and Aaron, his brother who accompanied him when he went to Pharaoh with a message from God, were displeased. They felt they had a right to speak out against any decision he made that was unfavourable in their eyes. Being the humble man he was and not holding any grudges, Moses seemed unaware of their resentment. He knew he had done nothing wrong in the sight of God.
It is not unusual, as we dwell among people, even Christians, that anger or resentment can arise in our hearts against them. But our heavenly Father, who knows the heart of every man, will speak to us. He gives us the opportunity to repent and correct our ways and is always forgiving. It is up to us to cease from anger, hate, or any other negative emotion and allow the Spirit of God to bring healing. We destroy ourselves when we hold on to hurts. We need to guard our hearts from evil thoughts and thoughts of revenge.
God called out Aaron and Miriam and rebuked them severely in the presence of Moses. As a result of their murmuring against Moses, Miriam was struck with leprosy. (Numbers 12:10). You might say this punishment was harsh, but we know little about the extent of their murmuring and the condition of their hearts. Moses himself was grieved and beseeched God (sought God earnestly in prayer) on behalf of his sister. God heard Moses’ prayer and healed Miriam.
The book of Proverbs admonishes us to guard our hearts with all diligence, for out of it flow the springs of life. (Proverbs 4:23).
It is not the physical heart, the organ that pumps blood throughout our bodies, that is referred to here. It is our thoughts and intentions that we must ensure are in line with the commandment, for it is as a result of what we entertain in our hearts that determines how we speak and act. Therefore, if we are to act right, we have to sanctify our hearts. David knew this when he prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God…” (Proverbs 51:10).
Like David, we need God’s help. We cannot do it alone, but God is faithful and just to forgive and to cleanse from all unrighteousness. Give Him the chance to do so, today!
Read: Psalm 24:3-4; Matthew 5:8
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 118:17-29; Colossians 4:2-18; Jeremiah 16; Jeremiah 17