Numbers·Chapter 11

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on your cravings. What are you wanting that might not be good for you? Maybe it’s material things, unhealthy habits, or even relationships that drain you. Write down a few of these cravings and think about how they make you feel. Then, challenge yourself to choose something different. For example, if you find yourself craving junk food, try making a healthy snack instead, or if you're longing for attention, consider reaching out to someone who builds you up instead. Start small, and see how it feels to make choices that nourish you instead of lead you to regret.

Chapter Context

In this chapter, the Israelites are on a journey through the wilderness, and they’ve started complaining about their food. They long for the meat and comforts of Egypt, forgetting the hardships they faced there. God hears their complaints and decides to give them what they crave, but there’s a twist. It’s in this moment of granting their desires that tragedy strikes. They receive quail, but it leads to a heavy price—many fall into this pit of craving, and that’s where we get the name Kibroth-hattaavah. This verse is a turning point; it’s where their desires take a deadly turn, teaching us about consequences.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• name - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• place - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• called - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• kibrothhattaavah - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• because - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• there - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• they - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• the - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• who - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What cravings in your life might be leading you away from what truly matters, and how can you redirect that energy into something positive?

Related Verses

• James 1:14 - This verse reminds us that our desires can lead us into trouble if we let them control us.
• Proverbs 25:16 - This verse talks about the dangers of overindulging in our cravings, just like the Israelites did.
• 1 Corinthians 10:6 - Here, Paul reflects on the Israelites’ experiences as examples of what not to do, highlighting the lessons learned from their cravings.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Numbers 11:34. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Complaining Against God, Divine Anger, Leadership Burdens, Provision of Manna, Desire for Meat, Consequences of Rebellion, Community Support

Key Verses

Numbers 11:1, Numbers 11:10, Numbers 11:14, Numbers 11:18, Numbers 11:20

Historical Context

In the context of Israel's 40-year wandering in the wilderness due to their unbelief and disobedience, this chapter reveals the ongoing struggles faced by the Israelites. It highlights their tendency to revert to nostalgia for their time in Egypt, despite the oppressive conditions they endured there. This chapter also sets the stage for understanding the dynamics of leadership among the Israelites, as Moses grapples with the immense responsibility of guiding a disgruntled people. The gathering of the seventy elders marks a significant development in the communal leadership structure, aiming to alleviate Moses’ burdens.