Mission Venture Ministries

“By the waters of Meribah they angered the Lord, and trouble came to Moses because of them; for they rebelled against the Spirit of God, and rash words came from Moses’ lips.” (Psalm 106:32-33) 

What a lesson for life there is to learn from these verses. This brief passage summarizes the tragic events described in Numbers 20:1-12. 

Psalm 106:32 refers to an incident during Israel’s wilderness journey, specifically at the “waters of Meribah.” Here, the Israelites provoked God through their complaints and lack of faith. As a result, Moses suffered consequences due to their actions and ultimately of his own. 

Moses had a right to be provoked with an ungrateful and complaining group of people. Finally, the people complained once too often, and Moses could take it no longer; so he thought. In anger, he reprimanded the rebels and smote the rock, disobeying God’s direction in how to miraculously provide water. As a result, God rebuked him, and he was not allowed to enter the Promised Land. 

This is a strong reminder from the Lord that it is all too easy in times of pressure and persistent inconsiderate selfishness by someone in our life, to rise up in “righteous indignation” and, like Moses, rash words came out from our lips. 

Such verbal assaults in our mind may seem to be well deserved and might seem to give personal satisfaction for a time, but they are usually counterproductive in the long run and very hurtful to one’s testimony for Christ. 

Unfortunately, the Bible tells us that “no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:8). Therefore, we need to be so sensitive to the Lord’s leading thru the Holy Spirit that dwells in the believer and make every effort to think before we speak; otherwise we will act in disobedience as Moses did. We need to remember that there are consequences and we will reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7) as Moses did. 

Guarding our words and actions under pressure is what Psalm 106:32 warns of. The passage teaches the importance of self-control and reliance on God’s strength, especially in challenging circumstances. When provoked, it is easy to respond in ways that do not honor God. We need to remember that we are called to exercise restraint and faith.  Repentance and humility are necessary to restore a right relationship with God. 

So how do we avoid provoking God’s Spirit through our reactions during trials? 

• Respond with patience and self-control, since these are fruits of the Spirit that help you respond to trials without provoking God’s Spirit. Instead of reacting impulsively or out of frustration, rely on the Holy Spirit to cultivate patience, gentleness, and self-control in your responses. This means pausing before reacting, praying for guidance, and choosing words and actions that reflect Christ’s character. 

• Trust God’s purposes in your trials recognizing that God allows trials for your spiritual growth. Trusting that He is in control and has a purpose, even when you don’t understand, it helps you avoid bitterness and resentment, which can provoke God’s Spirit. Remember God’s faithfulness in the past and believe that He is working for your good will help you endure hardships with hope rather than complaint. 

• When provoked or tested, seek wisdom from God before responding. Proverbs 15:1 teaches that a gentle answer turns away wrath. Take time to pray and ask the Holy Spirit for discernment so your reactions build up rather than tear down. 

• Follow Jesus’ example by responding to trials with Scripture. Meditate on and proclaim God’s promises when you feel tempted to react negatively. The Word of God is described as the sword of the Spirit, equipping you to stand firm and respond in faith rather than frustration. 

• Perseverance is key during trials. Instead of giving in to discouragement or despair, continue seeking God through prayer and His Word. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and remain constant in prayer (Romans 12:12). This posture keeps your heart aligned with God’s Spirit. 

• Humility and gentleness are essential for responding to difficulties in a way that honors God. Avoid prideful or harsh reactions, and instead, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, and patience (Colossians 3:12) 

By embracing these biblical principles, you can respond to trials in a way that honors God, avoids provoking His Spirit, and leads to spiritual growth and deeper trust in Him. 

Here are additional key lessons from this Psalm: 

Frustration Leads to Negative Outcomes: When we let frustration control our responses, it can result in anger, rash decisions, or actions that go against God’s instructions, as seen in Moses’ response at Meribah. 

Trusting God Brings Peace and Guidance: Scripture encourages us to replace anxiety and frustration with trust in God. When we present our struggles to Him in prayer and rely on His faithfulness, we experience peace that guards our hearts and minds. 

God Is Our Refuge in Trials: Trusting God means believing He is present, sovereign, and working for our good even in difficult circumstances. This trust enables us to respond with faith and patience instead of fear or irritation. 

Obedience over Impulse: The verse teaches that obedience to God, even when frustrated, is essential. Acting out of frustration can provoke God’s Spirit, while trusting Him leads to spiritual growth and deeper relationship. 

In conclusion, Psalm 106:32 teaches that in times of trial, we are called to trust God instead of giving in to frustration. Trusting God brings peace, fosters obedience, and prevents actions that may grieve His Spirit. Surrendering our anxieties to Him and relying on His faithfulness transforms our reactions and draws us closer to Him. The lesson being that God desires obedience and trust, not just outward results. Disobedience, even if it seems effective in our eyes, is not acceptable to God. 

The Lord Jesus Himself is the perfect example, for “He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth” (Isaiah 53:7). He could have called 10 legions of angels to destroy His tormentors, but instead He prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). 

Therefore, let us not be easily provoked to so-called righteous indignation since “Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.” (1 Peter 2:21). 

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