In Exodus chapter seventeen, verse six, the Lord told Moses to smite the rock in Horeb, and water will come out for the children of Israel to drink. The Israelites came to Rephidim journeying from the wilderness of Sin and discovered there was no water to drink. After forty-one days of leaving Egypt, about three million people traveled on foot for twenty-three kilometers from that wilderness to reach where they were now. Israel arrived at Dophkah on day thirty-nine. Between Dophkah and Alush, Israel traveled in small groups by “stages” through the twenty-three kilometers of mountain canyons to Alush on days forty and forty-one. On days forty-one and forty-two, Israel arrived in stages at Rephidim and complained about having no water.
Moses had to smite the rock for so many people traveling with Him. They faced challenges along the journey through unknown trails, especially between the wilderness of Sin and Rephidim are several narrow valleys about two hundred meters wide. It is also more rugged and hilly. The obstacles the Israelites faced on foot for roughly a month would take a toll on some older folks besides the children and women. They complained and criticized Moses about the situation. Eventually, the servant of God did not appreciate the feedback from the children of God and addressed it to Him.
In the New Testament, this rock identifies with Jesus Christ, the spring of living water. As Moses struck the rock, so was Christ smitten by death on the cross. As Christ was the source of blessing for Israel, He is the giver of the Holy Spirit for the people: the church is the people. The challenges the Israelites faced back in those days are similar to how believers deal with today. During this journey, we will have to deal with hills and valleys of life where we should not complain but trust God and use the Word of God to overcome the challenges and obstacles that come our way. He will provide the victory over all situations as we continue with Him.