June 10 -- "Unhealthy Ambition"

Today's Reading: Numbers 16 

"Unhealthy Ambition"

The story of Korah and his followers in Numbers 16 illustrates the dangers of discontentment and unhealthy ambition. Korah and his group were Levites who had been given the responsibility of serving in the Tabernacle, a position of honor and privilege within the community. However, they became discontented with their role and began to challenge the authority of Moses and Aaron, ultimately leading a rebellion against them.

Their discontentment was fueled by a desire for more power and influence within the community, and a belief that they deserved greater recognition for their service to God. However, their rebellion ultimately resulted in their own destruction, as God judged them for their disobedience and rebellion.

In today’s verse, Moses is essentially asking them if it is not enough that God has chosen them for this special role and allowed them to serve in the Tabernacle. By questioning the authority of Moses and Aaron, they are also questioning the authority of God, who appointed them to their positions.

This story serves as a warning against the dangers of discontentment and the pursuit of power and recognition at the expense of obedience to God and respect for legitimate authority. As Christ-followers, we are called to be content with what God has given us, and to trust in His timing and plan for our lives. We are also called to submit to the authority of those whom God has placed over us, whether it be in our families, workplaces, or churches.

When we become discontented and begin to question the authority of those in leadership, we run the risk of falling into the same trap as Korah and his followers. We may become blinded by our own ambition for power and recognition and lose sight of the greater goal of serving God and advancing His kingdom.

Instead, we should seek to cultivate a spirit of contentment and humility, recognizing that all we have and all we are comes from God. We should also seek to honor and respect those in leadership over us, trusting that God has placed them there for a purpose and seeking to serve Him through our obedience to their authority. As the Apostle Paul said in 1 Timothy 6:6, "But godliness with contentment is great gain.”