In Numbers, chapter seventeen, verse three, the Lord speaks to Moses about the children of Israel concerning writing Aaron’s name upon the rod of Levi, for one rod shall be the head of the house of their fathers. This chapter defends God’s choice of the tribe of Levi as ministers and Aaron as high priest. The Lord performed a miracle to demonstrate His choice of leadership, described in verse six. Under the new covenant, godly leaders who faithfully proclaim God’s Word must be recognized and obeyed.
Chapter seventeen of Numbers is about the budding of Aaron’s rod. Aaron, the Levite, older brother of Moses, would not have been with him in helping lead God’s people to Egypt if it was not for Moses’ negative reply about himself to God. However, Aaron did aid some of the rebellious people while his younger brother was on the mountain. They murmured about the absence of Moses, wandering what had become of him. The disobedient people press Aaron to cater to them by making a golden calf.
The blessing of Aaron demonstrates that God chooses who He desires to lead His people and bless. The children of Israel did complain still despite being a part of receiving the portion of the blessing of Aaron’s budded rod. They reply to Moses about their perishing or dying in the last two verses of the same chapter. Some of the Israelites may expect to be in the position of Aaron at this point. Especially with him being a Levite.
Many called, and few chosen. Aaron’s brother went into the Tabernacle of Witness, as stated in verse eight. The rod of Aaron for the house of Levi brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and brought forth almonds. God knows the heart of everyone. Throughout the time Moses began his journey with the people of Israel, Aaron was there beside his brother, helping lead the children of Israel. While the Israelites murmured several times along the way, Aaron was there, and so was God. The people of Israel did not trust Him and wanted a promotion.
Our actions speak louder than words. We cannot expect a blessing from God if we do not behave and follow His Word. God is a merciful God and will aid when needed. However, like the Israelites, we should not murmur and demand from our Lord certain things while we act differently from His Word. God is fair, and we need to be that way with ourselves.