by the Spirit of Christ, though not all agreed in outward matters, there is work enough for all, in
calling sinners to repentance, and faith in our Lord Jesus.
Verses 31–35
God performed his promise to the people, in giving them flesh. How much more diligent men
are in collecting the meat that perishes, than in labouring for meat which endures to everlasting
life! We are quick-sighted in the affairs of time; but stupidity blinds us as to the concerns of eternity.
To pursue worldly advantages, we need no arguments; but when we are to secure the true riches,
then we are all forgetfulness. Those who are under the power of a carnal mind, will have their lusts
fulfilled, though it be to the certain damage and ruin of their precious souls. They paid dearly for
their feasts. God often grants the desires of sinners in wrath, while he denies the desires of his own
people in love. What we unduly desire, if we obtain it, we have reason to fear, will be some way
or other a grief and cross to us. And what multitudes there are in all places, who shorten their lives
by excess of one kind or other! Let us seek for those pleasures which satisfy, but never surfeit; and
which will endure for evermore.
Chapter 12
Chapter Outline
God rebukes the murmuring of Aaron and (1–9)
Miriam.
Miriam struck with leprosy, and healed at (10–16)
the prayer of Moses.Verses 1–9
The patience of Moses was tried in his own family, as well as by the people. The pretence was,
that he had married a foreign wife; but probably their pride was hurt, and their envy stirred up, by
his superior authority. Opposition from our near relations, and from religious friends, is most
painful. But this is to be looked for, and it will be well if in such circumstances we can preserve
the gentleness and meekness of Moses. Moses was thus fitted to the work he was called to. God
not only cleared Moses, but praised him. Moses had the spirit of prophecy in a way which set him
far above all other prophets; yet he that is least in the kingdom of heaven, is greater than he; and
our Lord Jesus infinitely excels him, Heb 3:1. Let Miriam and Aaron consider whom it was they
insulted. We have reason to be afraid of saying or doing any thing against the servants of God. And
those are presumptuous indeed who are not afraid to speak evil of dignities, 2Pe 2:10. The removal
of God's presence is the surest and saddest token of God's displeasure. Woe to us, if he depart! he
never departs, till by sin and folly we drive him from us.