Numbers 11

Commentary

In Numbers 11, the Israelites are in the wilderness and are complaining about the food they have been given. They are longing for the food they had in Egypt, and they are so desperate that they are willing to risk their lives to get it. God hears their complaints and sends a wind to bring quail to them. He also sends a fire to consume the outskirts of the camp. The people are so overwhelmed by the abundance of food that they gather more than they can eat. Moses is angry with them for their lack of faith and for not trusting in God to provide for them. He pleads with God to forgive them, and God does. God then gives Moses the task of appointing seventy elders to help him lead the people. He also gives Moses the ability to share his spirit with the elders, so that they can help him lead the people. The chapter ends with the people being satisfied with the food they have been given. They are no longer complaining and are content with the provisions God has given them. This chapter serves as a reminder to us that God is always faithful and will provide for us if we trust in Him. We should not be like the Israelites and complain about what we have been given, but instead be thankful for the blessings God has bestowed upon us.