From Complaints to Apostasy

October 31, 2009
Larry R Evans

Reflective Introduction

Influence is a gift but it can work havoc on any organization if it undermines God’s plans or His leaders. The lessons found in Numbers 11-14 provide critical insights and instructions for all who are bound for the Promised Land. Moses, Caleb and Joshua stand tall though they were beaten down by the majority. Leadership is not about being naïve but it is about remaining in the presence of God despite the odds. While circumstances can cause us to feel inadequate and about the size of grasshoppers (Num.13:33) a confidence rooted in God can bring hope and renew our strength even when times are tough (Isa. 40:27-31). There will be times when we will strongly disagree with those who may hold responsible positions in the Church and without but how we speak of them and how we use our influence speaks louder than our words. Note the following counsel by Ellen White:

“To those who have educated themselves to speak unadvisedly, I am instructed to say, Unless you cease encouraging evil-speaking, unless you guard as Christians should the reputation of your fellow workers, you will endanger your own soul and the souls of many others. No longer talk about the wrong that someone is doing. Never, never repeat a scandal. Go to the one assailed, and ask him in regard to the matter. God has not appointed any man to be the judge of another man's motives and work. He who feels at liberty to dissect the character of another, he who intentionally detracts from the influence of a fellow worker, is as verily breaking God's law as if he openly disregarded the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. { Ellen White in Review and Herald,, May 12, 1903 par. 7}

“The Redeemer has told us how we may reveal him to the world. If we cherish his Spirit, if we manifest his love toward others, if we guard one another's interests, if we are kind, patient, forbearing, the fruits we bear will give evidence to the world that we are God's children. It is unity in the church that enables Christians to exert a strong influence upon unbelievers.” {Ellen White in Review and Herald, February 25, 1904 par. 11}

These may seem like harsh words but before we draw any conclusions be sure to read Numbers 11-14. Then read through the quiz questions.

Reflective Quiz

1. It is not murmuring if the complaint is true? [Num. 11:1-11] True or False?

2. Sometimes it is not a good thing when our prayers are answered. [Num. 11:18-34] True or False?

3. When rebuked by God’s Word we should blame the leaders who are after all the interpreters of God’s will. [Num. 11:10-15] True or False?

4. Each of us can be tempted to allow our own burdens to obscure God’s plans for us and others. [Num. 11:10-15] True or False?

5. Jealousy and conflict can develop about leaders from other leaders and even from their own families. [Num. 12] True or False?

6. God was being unfair when He caused Miriam to become leprous but not her brother Aaron when they both undermined Moses. [Num.12:1] True or False?

7. When reproved by God, confessing that we have sinned is what it takes put us back on track. [Deut. 1:26-46] True or False?

8. The key to serving God is to ignore the obstacles that are encountered along the way. [Deut. 1:26-46] True or False?

9. To avoid problems and heartaches we need to follow the Lord. [Deut. 1:26-31] True or False?

10. It is not the size of the problem which causes one to lose self-esteem and confidence but one's attitude. [Num. 13:31-33] True or False?

11. When God’s chosen leaders are treated with contempt God takes it personally. [Num. 14: 1-12] True or False?

12. Even when the Promised Land [Heaven] is in sight and within in our grasp some will lose their way because of the difficulties and trials they face. [Num. 14:1-4] True or False?

13. Spending forty years in the desert was determined because of forty days that the spies explored the land which ended with their spreading doubt and discontent. [Num. 14:34] True or False?

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