A serpent problem solved.

Numbers 21:1–9
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ALife often becomes like a gymnasium or a battlefield (II Tim. 2:1-5), where we must exercise our faith and develop strong spiritual muscles for running the race of life. This truth is well illustrated in this chapter where God’s care and discipline of His people is so evident. The Jews had just completed their mourning over Aaron’s death (20:28) and the priestly clothing was removed from Aaron and placed on his son Eleazar. Now the Israelites were facing their first battle with the Canaanites who had captured some of the Israelites. The Israelites vowed to destroy the Canaanites and their cities if the Lord would give them victory. Keep in mind that the Canaanite culture was unspeakably wicked, especially their religious practices, and God wanted these nations removed from the earth.

The Israelites were discouraged because of the route taken around Edom (v. 4). They spoke out against Moses and God by doubting God’s deliverance. They began to think that they had been led into the wilderness to die instead of holding to the promise of the “Promised Land,” denying God’s ability they focused on the lack of bread and water and not on the awesome power of God to provide such things. Despising God’s provision of the manna and the quail, they hated what God had given to sustain them (v. 5). Because of their complaining and speaking against Moses, God sent “fiery serpents” (poisonous snakes) to punish the people for their unbelief and complaining. Both the Israelites and Egyptians had a great fear of snakes (vv. 6-9). A bite by a poisonous snake often meant a slow death. God provided a way for them to turn from the curse of death and look to the bronze serpent – look to God instead of their reality – and then they were healed.

Application

We have been stung by sin and are under the curse of death. It is in this condition of sin that I must approach the empty tomb of Jesus. Just as the uplifted serpent was the only cure in the camp, Jesus Christ is the only Savior for sinners in this world (John 14:6).