“Is the Lord’s hand too short?” (Numbers 11:23, footnote).
1. How did Moses show his trust in Jehovah when he led the Israelites out of Egypt?
Moses demonstrated firm faith in Jehovah when he led the Israelites out of Egypt. Despite the opposition of Pharaoh and his army, he was undeterred. Trusting completely in Jehovah, he led the people to the Red Sea, and when it seemed they were trapped, Jehovah opened a way for them.
Later, in the wilderness, Moses continued to trust that Jehovah would provide for the nation. Even when the Israelites began to doubt, Jehovah did not abandon them; he miraculously gave them food and water.
His example teaches us that trusting in Jehovah doesn't mean we won't face difficulties, but that He will provide the necessary help at the right time. Moses acted with courage and patience because he was confident that Jehovah would fulfill his promises.
2. Why did Jehovah ask Moses the question found in Numbers 11:21-23?
Jehovah asked Moses the question we read in Numbers 11 because, despite his great faith, he struggled to imagine how God could provide meat for millions of people in the desert. Moses knew that Jehovah had performed miracles before, but now he faced a problem that seemed impossible from his human perspective.
Jehovah responded with a question that highlighted his power: “Is Jehovah’s hand too short?” The expression “Jehovah’s hand” symbolizes his power in action, that is, his holy spirit. With this question, Jehovah was not only correcting Moses but also reaffirming his ability to fulfill any promise. As recounted later, Jehovah sent a wind that brought quail in abundance, demonstrating that nothing is impossible for Him.
3. Why is it important for us to analyze what happened to Moses and the Israelites?
It's important to analyze what happened to Moses and the Israelites because their experience teaches us valuable lessons about faith and trust in Jehovah. This account helps us reflect on our own faith.
Have we ever doubted that Jehovah will provide for us? In times of financial hardship or personal problems, we might feel like Moses or the Israelites. However, the Bible assures us that Jehovah is faithful and always keeps his promises.
By studying these accounts, we strengthen our confidence that Jehovah will never abandon us. No matter how difficult the circumstances, His hand is never too short to help those who trust in Him.
WHAT THE EXAMPLE OF MOSES AND THE ISRAELITES TEACHES US
4. Why did many Israelites begin to doubt that Jehovah could take care of them?
The account in Numbers 11 shows that doubt and lack of trust in Jehovah can spread quickly if we are not careful with our associations and thoughts.
The mixed crowd of foreigners traveling with the Israelites began to complain about the manna, and soon the Israelites too began to long for the food of Egypt, forgetting that they were actually suffering as slaves there.
This discontent led Moses to feel that he had to solve the problem himself, rather than remembering that Jehovah had provided everything necessary up to that point. He felt the burden was too great for him to bear.
5, 6. What do we learn from the bad influence that foreigners had on many Israelites?
This story teaches us several important lessons. First, a lack of gratitude is contagious. The foreigners began to complain, and the Israelites adopted the same attitude, forgetting all that Jehovah had already done for them. This shows how dangerous it is to surround ourselves with people who constantly complain or who don't appreciate what they have. As 1 Corinthians 15:33 says, "Bad company spoils good morals."
Second, the Israelites focused on what they didn't have, rather than on what Jehovah had promised them. Jehovah hadn't promised them comfort in the wilderness, but a land flowing with milk and honey. We too must remember that this system is not our final destination; rather, we are on the way to the new world, and we must patiently wait for what Jehovah has promised.
7. Why can we be sure that there are no limits to Jehovah’s hand?
The question Jehovah asked Moses in Numbers 11:23 was a reminder that his power is limitless. Moses, though a man of faith, briefly doubted how he would provide meat for millions of people in a desert. However, Jehovah showed that there is no barrier that can prevent him from acting.
The Bible is full of examples showing how Jehovah uses his power in amazing ways. In the case of the Israelites, he not only delivered them from Egypt with an outstretched arm, but he also fed them with manna, gave them water in the wilderness, and provided meat when they doubted him. In Psalm 138:6-7, we are reminded that Jehovah does not forget the humble and that his protective hand is with them in trouble.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
We can be confident that there are no limits to Jehovah's hand, because his power is infinite. Although the Israelites were in the wilderness without food, Jehovah was able to provide them with abundant meat. In the same way, when we face difficulties, Jehovah can help us no matter our situation.
8. What should we do to avoid falling into the same error as many Israelites? (See also the image.)
To avoid making the same mistake as many Israelites, we must guard against greed and focus on strengthening our friendship with Jehovah and Jesus. When Jehovah gave them quail, instead of thanking him for his provision, many Israelites were dominated by the selfish desire to accumulate more than they needed.
This story teaches us that materialism and excessive ambition can distance us from Jehovah. Jesus taught that we should focus on storing up treasures in heaven—on strengthening our relationship with God and doing his will. If we do this, we can be confident that Jehovah will provide us with what we need to live.
ILLUSTRATION
During the night, the Israelites gather a large number of quails in the desert.
What attitude did many Israelites demonstrate in the desert, and what does that teach us? (See paragraph 8.)
9. What can we be sure of?
We can be confident that Jehovah is always willing to help his servants. While that doesn't mean we'll never face financial difficulties or times of food shortages, the Bible assures us that Jehovah will never abandon us. He will give us the strength to endure any trial.
A clear example of this is when we face financial difficulties or when we plan for our old age. Instead of worrying excessively, we should trust that Jehovah will provide for what we need. Jesus taught that we should not be anxious about what we will eat or wear, because our heavenly Father knows what we need.
WHEN GOING THROUGH ECONOMIC PROBLEMS
10. What economic problems might we suffer?
Since biblical times, God's servants have faced economic hardships. For example, in Joseph's time, a severe famine forced many families to move in search of food. Today, the situation is no different: inflation, unemployment, and global conflicts have generated economic instability.
When we face these problems, it's important to evaluate our priorities. Moving or changing jobs may be necessary, but never at the expense of our spirituality. We must remember that Jehovah is our provider and gives us the wisdom to make wise decisions without losing faith.
11. What can help us cope with financial problems? (Luke 12:29-31)
When we face financial problems, one key way to help is to talk to Jehovah about our concerns, for He knows what we need and is willing to help us. By asking Him for wisdom, we can make wiser decisions in difficult times.
Furthermore, it is important to pray for inner peace so we don't fall into the trap of excessive anxiety. As mentioned in Luke 12:29-31, Jesus teaches us not to worry about what we will eat or wear, for Jehovah knows what we need and will provide for us if we seek first his Kingdom.
12. What questions will help a Christian make the best decision for his or her family?
Making decisions that affect the family requires deep reflection on spiritual priorities. In Luke 14:28, Jesus advises his followers to count the costs before making important decisions, and this is especially true when it comes to family life.
When considering a move or a job change, a Christian should evaluate the spiritual repercussions it will have on their personal life, marriage, and parenting. Sometimes, financial offers can be tempting, but if they affect our ability to fulfill our spiritual responsibilities, we should be cautious.
Tony's example highlights how his decision to reject job offers and prioritize his family's spiritual well-being resulted in long-term blessings. By following the principle of Matthew 6:33, Jehovah enabled him to remain close to his family and help others come to a knowledge of the truth.
WHEN PLANNING FOR OLD AGE
13. What can we do now to have what we need in the future?
To ensure we have what we need in the future, the Bible encourages us to be foresighted and hardworking. Proverbs 6:6-11 highlights the diligence of the ant, which stores up provisions for difficult times. Following this principle, it is wise to work hard and, if possible, save something for the future.
Although money can provide a measure of security, Ecclesiastes 7:12 reminds us that it shouldn't become our main priority. Jehovah promises that he will always take care of us, but he also advises us to make wise decisions regarding our finances.
This means not only avoiding unnecessary debt, but also managing our resources well and trusting Jehovah to provide for our essentials.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
We can ensure we have what we need in the future by being forward-thinking and hardworking. Saving within our means is wise, but without making money our priority. The most important thing is to trust that Jehovah will provide for us, as long as we put the Kingdom first.
14. How does Hebrews 13:5 help us when planning for our old age?
Hebrews 13:5 reminds us that Jehovah will never abandon us, which helps us maintain a balanced perspective when planning for our old age. While it is wise to plan ahead, this text admonishes us not to put our trust in riches, but in Jehovah.
Furthermore, the Bible warns us that riches are uncertain, and we don't know what our lives will be like tomorrow. In the past, first-century Christians renounced their possessions when necessary, and today many Christians have faced financial losses for remaining neutral.
Therefore, when planning for our old age, we must trust in Jehovah. While it is wise to save and be foresighted, our true security comes from Jehovah, who has promised to take care of us.
15. How should Christian parents view their children? (See also the image.)
Christian parents should view their children as a blessing and a responsibility given by Jehovah, not as a retirement plan. In some cultures, children are expected to financially care for their parents in their old age, but the Bible establishes that it is parents who should provide for their children, not the other way around.
Therefore, when parents grow old and need support, it is natural for children to assist them with love and respect. In fact, caring for elderly parents is a way of honoring them, something Jehovah values. However, the primary purpose of parenting is not to ensure assistance in old age, but to help children come to know and serve Jehovah.
ILLUSTRATION
A married couple chats animatedly with their daughter and her husband over video calls. The daughter and her husband are wearing high-visibility vests.
Christian couples consider biblical principles when making decisions about their future. (See paragraph 15.)
16. How can parents prepare their children to earn a living in the future? (Ephesians 4:28)
Parents can prepare their children to earn a living in the future by teaching them the importance of hard work and trust in Jehovah. From a young age, children should look to their parents as a good example of hard work and responsibility.
Ephesians 4:28 advises that, instead of stealing, people should work hard to help others. This principle shows that work is a blessing and a means of supporting oneself with dignity. Parents can instill this value in their children by teaching them responsibility.
Furthermore, they should help them make balanced decisions about their education, based on biblical principles. The goal should not be simply to find a job, but to choose an occupation that will allow them to support themselves and, at the same time, have the time necessary to serve Jehovah, including as pioneers.
17. What are we convinced of?
We are convinced that Jehovah is able and willing to provide for our material needs. As the end of this system approaches, our trust in Jehovah will be tested even more. However, no matter the circumstances, we must maintain faith that Jehovah will use his power to provide for us.
Faithful servants have no doubt that Jehovah never abandons his servants. The Bible assures us that his hand is never short and always reaches out to where we are.
This confidence helps us not to worry excessively about material problems and to focus on what is most important: our relationship with Jehovah and his purpose for us.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
What does what happened to Moses and the Israelites teach us?
It teaches us that Jehovah always provides for his faithful servants. Although the Israelites faced difficulties in the wilderness, Jehovah sustained them with manna and water. Likewise, we must trust that He will help us in difficult times.
How can we show that we trust in Jehovah when we face financial difficulties?
We can demonstrate this by praying to Jehovah and asking for wisdom to make good decisions. It's also important to be content with what's necessary and to seek practical advice in Bible-based publications for dealing with financial difficulties.
What should we keep in mind when making plans for old age?
We must work hard, and if possible, save something for the future. However, we must not put our trust in riches, but in Jehovah, who has promised never to abandon us.
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