Back in the book of Exodus we met Miriam, Moses’ older sister. Today in the book of Numbers she is back for a part 3!

Check out Part I and Part II

In Numbers 12 we get to see a different side of Miriam. A not so pretty side. I think it’s relevant because we all have not so pretty sides. You know those faults and weak moments you wish you could erase from time and space.

Yup, I would categorize Miriam’s choices in Numbers 12 as one of her top 5 regrets.

Verses 1 and 2 set up the scene. “Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite. ² “Has the Lord spoken only through Moses?” they asked. “Hasn’t he also spoken through us?” And the Lord heard this.“.

Miriam got a bit jealous here. Her emotions flared and she reacted before she could get ahold of herself. God was listening to the whole conversation which I think He tends to do. He did not like what He heard.

In verses 4 – 9 God is pretty much lecturing Miriam and Aaron on their behavior.

In verse 10 we see Miriam’s consequence. “When the cloud lifted from above the tent, Miriam’s skin was leprous—it became as white as snow.”

At this point Aaron begs Moses to do something for their sister and Moses pleads before the Lord to heal her and remove the leprous skin.

God showed her mercy through a seven day quarantine. ¹⁵ So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on till she was brought back.

This chapter showed me two things.

1. Part of God’s Character

Scripture tells us that our God is the same yesterday, today and forever Hebrews 13:8. So the character he demonstrates with Miriam will be the same for us.

• He was direct.
• He was honest.
• He was just.
• He was merciful.

2. Intercession Counts

Miriam messed up. She had a moment of weakness. She spoke against God when she spoke against Moses. However if you read Part I and Part II then you know that Miriam isn’t normally this petty. You know that she is really a God fearing, worshipper.

The second point that I learned from this situation is that our previous actions make deposits into trust jars. Aaron was quick to defend his sister. Moses in turn defended her as well. His plead, prayer or intercession before the Lord moved God’s heart to show her mercy.

You and I need people in our lives who will defend us and intercede for us before the Lord in our weak moments. In those times when we think we can’t make it or the times in which we make decisions we end up regretting. Some of the biggest blessings are a result of other’s prayers on our behalf.

My dear sisters, God’s character is one of mercy! He will forgive us no matter our regret. Let’s always come before Him with repentant hearts and make better choices. I pray that you may be encouraged and remember that I am praying, pleading, interceding for you before the Lord.

My Prayer for You:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the opportunity to write this blog. I pray that these words may encourage every person who reads them. I ask you to reveal yourself to every reader in a mighty way, that they may know your presence and hear your voice. I pray that you may cover them and protect them from the corruption of this world. Jesus, I pray that you may help us to continue learning about your true character that we may embrace your love. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Memory Verse: Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Thanks for stopping by! Check me out on Instagram or Twitter. Also feel free to click the follow button to receive email notifications of new posts.

See you guys next week for more from the women of Numbers.