This chapter gives us a lesson in the contrast between Miriam and Aaron and Moses. How easy it is for the human heart to be stirred with anger and jealousy or envy, and for the tongue to speak out the thoughts that have found a home in the heart.
They said, “Hath the Lord indeed spoken only by Moses? Hath He not spoken also by us?” But see what God, who has chosen every sentence, and every word for the Bible, put into His book, to follow directly after what Moses’ sister and brother said: “And the Lord heard it!” We may be sure that Moses found out how they felt toward him, if he did not know the words they said, and it is the natural thing to feel provoked and say something in return but Moses could leave his troubles to God. And there the record stands: “And the Lord heard it.” Was that not better than answering again?
There is a wonderful word about Moses in verse 3 of our chapter, and I hope you will think about it, but after all, Moses was not perfect, though he was a great example of forbearance and patience. But there is One Man even Jesus, who has left a perfect record, and the first four books of the New Testament tell us many lovely stories about Him. And in the Epistles, we learn much more, as for instance in 1 Peter 2:21-23,21For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: (1 Peter 2:21‑23) where we read, “Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not, but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.”
Perhaps when Miriam and Aaron heard the people complaining in chapter 11, they felt that they would not do such things; that they knew better, and could trust God to take care of them, and a little thought crept in that they were not likely to sin.
I know such thoughts do come to those who belong to Jesus in this day. Well, if they come to you, my reader, look out! for Satan is near, and you will be tested.
But are you saved? And have you confessed Christ as your Saviour and Lord?