The Bar is High

READ 
Numbers 20:12 

CONSIDER 
So, what is the consequence for striking a rock instead of speaking to it? God tells Moses he won’t lead the people into the Promised Land.  

Seems kind of harsh, doesn’t it? Only if we’re often uncomfortable with the high expectation God places on our faithfulness. God says Moses failed to "uphold Him as holy." Moses was God’s representative to the Israelites, in a manner of speaking. They were accustomed to him speaking to them on God’s behalf. So, when Moses speaks out of his frustration, it quite possibly distorts the people’s view of God, making God himself seem reactionary and angry, rather than sovereign and gracious. 

 
REFLECT 
Yet, God is gracious. He still provides water for the people and their animals. Plus, Moses’ failure doesn't undo his past or relationship with God. But it does remind us that our witness matters. We can’t claim to follow a holy God on Sunday and then live out of our own will during the week. The reverence we show in the sanctuary needs to be displayed in how we treat people when we’re stressed. 

Holiness isn't just an internal feeling; it’s a visible witness. We are called to be mirrors. When we act out of our flesh, we smudge the mirror, and people can’t see Jesus clearly. The bar is high because the One we represent is holy. 

 
PRAY 
Lord, I don’t want to misrepresent You. When people look at my life, I want them to see Your holiness, not my frustration. Keep me close to You so my life tells the truth about who you are. Amen.