Consequences of Grumbling
“We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.” Num 13:33
Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.
” Num 13:30 Explore
Jos 13:21-25Lord brought whole nation of Israel out of Egypt and led them out with supernatural miracles. Now when they were near Canaan, Moses send 12 leaders, one from each tribe. They explored the land for 40 days.
Bad Report
Jos 13:31-3310 of the 12, brought back the report that the people of Canaan are very strong and Israelities will surely lose the battle. Striking report what they said was, we seem to look like grasshoppers in our own eyes , this perception happened only because they thought of conquering Canaan with their own strength.
Trust
Jos 14:6-9But Caleb silenced the grumbling. Joshua and Caleb said Lord will lead us into victory, as enemies protection is gone as Lord is on our side, do not be afraid. Even in deepest crisis, we can still be strong and positive if we trust in the Lord.
Rebellion
Jos 14:1-4People even planned to stone Caleb and Joshua. They wanted to find a new leader to go back to Egypt. They grumbled and questioned God, on why He brought them out to be killed.
Punishment
Jos 14:29-39Lord was angry and said this generation every one who came out of Egypt who were above 20 will die in desert. And their children will be shepherds for 40 years in the desert. All the 10 leaders who started the bad report were dead with plague immediately.
Lesson
Limiting, doubting and grumbling against the Lord in tough times is serious sin that will delay the promise of God. People paid huge price of punishment of being desperate (Desperation that came out of fear) Are we fearful, desperate and limiting God ? Two (Caleb and Joshua) people who trust in the deepest fear, entered Canaan.