This provides an essential lesson on humility and the dangers of pride. This verse recounts the character of Moses, highlighting his unique relationship with God and his humility.
Numbers 12:3 states, "Now the man Moses was very humble, more than all the men who were on the surface of the earth." This brief but powerful statement reveals a remarkable quality of Moses—his exceptional humility. Despite his prominent position as the leader of the Israelites and his close relationship with God, Moses remained remarkably humble.
Applying this verse to our lives, we are presented with a profound example of how humility should characterize our attitudes and actions, especially in positions of leadership and influence. Moses serves as a role model for us, demonstrating that true greatness is not found in status or recognition but in our willingness to humbly serve God and others.
Throughout the Bible, humility is highly valued as a virtue. In Psalm 25:9, it is written, "He will guide the humble in justice. He will teach the humble his way." God promises to lead and teach the humble, showing that humility opens our hearts to receiving His guidance and wisdom.
In Proverbs 11:2, it is written, "When pride comes, then comes shame, but with humility comes wisdom." This verse underscores the contrast between pride and humility, with pride leading to shame and humility leading to wisdom. Embracing humility allows us to grow in wisdom and understanding.
In the New Testament, Jesus teaches about humility as well. In Matthew 23:12, He says, "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Jesus emphasizes that those who exalt themselves and seek their own glory will be brought low, but those who humble themselves will be lifted up by God.
Returning to Numbers 12:3, Moses' humility is a stark contrast to the behavior of others in this passage. In Numbers 12:1-2, his siblings, Aaron and Miriam, speak against him and question his leadership due to his marriage to a Cushite woman. However, Moses does not retaliate or defend himself. Instead, God Himself intervenes and affirms Moses' unique relationship with Him (Numbers 12:4-8).
Moses' humility is further illustrated in his intercession for Miriam when she is struck with leprosy as a consequence of her actions (Numbers 12:9-13). Despite the hurtful words spoken against him, Moses chooses to intercede on behalf of his sister, seeking her healing and restoration.
Applying this aspect of the passage to our lives, we learn the importance of responding to criticism or attacks with humility and grace. Instead of seeking retaliation, we should seek reconciliation and intercede for those who wrong us.
In conclusion, Numbers 12:3 reveals the exceptional humility of Moses, a key figure in the Bible. His example challenges us to embrace humility as a virtue and characterizes our attitudes and actions. Humility opens our hearts to God's guidance and wisdom, allowing us to grow in His ways. It also contrasts with the dangers of pride, which can lead to shame and distance us from God. Instead of seeking self-exaltation or defending ourselves when faced with criticism, we should respond with humility and seek reconciliation. Just as Moses interceded for his sister Miriam, we should extend grace and love to those who wrong us. May we follow the example of Moses, striving to cultivate humility in our lives, and seeking to honor God by humbly serving Him and others.
Numbers 12:3. The man Moses was very humble, more than all the men who were on the surface of the earth.