In Numbers chapter 12, we have a fine example of the Lord disciplining His children. The siblings were fighting. Particularly, Aaron and Miriam were complaining against their baby brother Moses. They were jealous that God was speaking through him to the people. They also didn’t happen to like his new wife.
The Lord heard their arguments and complaints. He called the three of them aside. He was going to deal with their sin – apply loving parental discipline – but not in full view of the whole camp. He used two tools. The first was rebuke. The second was “the rod”, or some kind of physical punishment. In this case, it was leprosy. Miriam was leprous after the Lord finished speaking with them.
All three were then distraught. Aaron was sorry for their foolish attitudes, and Moses prayed the Lord would heal her. But it didn’t change the fact that the Lord’s discipline had to be administered, and the consequences of their sin had to be felt, at least for a little while. She would be leprous 7 days, after which she would be healed and the camp could move.
So the Lord rebuked them in private, and punished in private, but He allowed the consequences to be evident to the public. The whole camp must have known that Miriam was leprous. Maybe some knew why – certainly they all wondered why.
Sibling rivalry is as old as the hills, and it seems that some causes are jealousy and pride. But God’s heart is for repentance and restoration, and here we see that Miriam was healed, restored, and able to move forward again. And she didn’t complain about her baby brother again!
to Christ - in Christ - for Christ
Cool, some of that reminds me of what we talked about in the discussion Saturday (the Titus 2 study). So relevant, so good for us to apply in our own families, be it our biological or church families.
You know, I didn’t even think of the church family application. Good job, Barb. I think Barb gets extra credit for that!
Thanks so much, Ginger, for organizing this. I have REALLY enjoyed the 2 studies so far. And I know Jerrilyn’s teaching will be good, too. Can’t wait!
OK, we’ll be sure to give Barb extra credit. Where are these grades recorded anyhow?:)