A Lesson in Humility

Most of us struggle with one of two extremes: thinking too highly of ourselves or too lowly of ourselves. Scripture calls us to something better: an accurate, God-centered understanding of who we are. In Numbers 12, God teaches a painful but necessary lesson in humility when Miriam and Aaron criticize Moses. God confronts their arrogance directly, defends His servant, and Miriam is struck with leprosy. Yet even in discipline, God shows mercy. Aaron confesses their sin, and Moses responds with humility and compassion by interceding for Miriam. This sermon also connects the lesson to 1 Peter, showing how believers should respond when they are criticized for serving Christ: Serve with the strength God supplies (1 Peter 4:10–11) Don’t be surprised by trials or insults—if you are reviled for Christ, you are blessed (1 Peter 4:12–14) Humble yourself under God’s mighty hand, and He will exalt you at the proper time (1 Peter 5:6) If you’re facing criticism—especially from people close to you—this message will help you keep your eyes on God, walk in humility, and trust the Lord to deal with His servants in His way and timing. Sermon Notes Numbers 12:1 & 2 Moses’ relationship with the Lord criticized due to his second marriage Numbers 12:3 Moses is a humble man Numbers 12:4 – 8 God tells Aaron and Miriam His relationship with Moses is different and they should have been afraid to speak against him Numbers 12:9 & 10 God was angry with them and struck Miriam with leprosy Numbers 12:11 & 12 Aaron confesses their sin to Moses Numbers 12:13 Moses intercedes for Miriam Numbers 12:14 & 15 The Lord’s response is that she must bear her shame for 7 days 1 Peter 4:10 – 14 If you are reviled for Christ you are blessed 1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourself before God and He will exalt you