Daily Devotional

“Because you did not believe Me, to hallow Me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land which I have given them” (Numbers 20:12). 

The Battle of the Little Bighorn is probably one of the most studied battles in U.S. military history. A large stack of books have been written about George Armstrong Custer’s general-ship during the fight. Neither Custer nor his 209 soldiers in his command survived the day to tell their story. His widow wrote three books to fiercely protect her husband’s reputation. 

Some believe Custer made some strategic errors in the wilderness of Montana. Probably the largest criticism of a man who has often been called the most flamboyant and brash officer in the U.S. Army was his refusal of help from the 2nd Cavalry. Custer believed his 7th could handle anything—and it cost him his life. 

During the long and difficult travels through the Sinai wilderness, Moses provided consistent and outstanding leadership. His actions under great duress continually affirmed his reliance on God. As long as he sought direction from the Lord, he could handle anything. 

One time Moses let go of God and allowed his frustrations to direct his behaviour. The Israelites were wandering through a particularly dry region when they began to complain that there was no water. Instead of calling to God for help, they directed their grumblings at Moses. “Why have you brought up the assembly of the Lord into this wilderness, that we and our animals should die here?” (Numbers 20:4). 

God instructed Moses to speak to a rock and said it would bring forth water. Moses instead struck the rock twice, disobeying the Lord. The con- sequence for his sin was not being allowed to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. 

Some think God was too severe in punishing Moses for this mistake, but the record tells us that not even a man like Moses can atone for sin. None of us can handle our enemy without heaven’s reinforcements. 

O Lord, without You I am helpless. Today I will put my trust in You continually. Sustain me in every trial I face.