“The Spirit, the Prophets, and the Lesson from Numbers 11”
Scripture Focus: Numbers 11:24–35
G-d takes from the Spirit that was upon Moses and places it upon seventy elders — a symbolic number revealing the fullness of G-d’s will (7 × 10 = divine completion).
The Spirit descends, and they begin to prophesy, revealing divine truth. Yet among them, two men — Eldad and Medad — remain in the camp. Though absent physically, the Spirit of G-d still moves upon them.
This teaches us something powerful:
“The Spirit of G-d is not limited by place, presence, or human expectation.”
The Freedom of G-d’s Spirit
When the Spirit fell, even those not gathered around the tent began to prophesy. Joshua, a faithful servant of Moses, was concerned and said:
“My lord Moses, stop them!” (Numbers 11:28)
But Moses replied with humility and vision:
“Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put His Spirit on them!” (v. 29)
Moses understood something eternal — that G-d’s Spirit desires to dwell upon all who believe. This longing would one day be fulfilled through Yeshua the Messiah, whose redemptive work released the Spirit without measure.
The Spirit and the Flesh
Immediately after this miraculous event, the narrative shifts dramatically.
The people, instead of giving thanks for G-d’s provision and His Spirit, began craving meat — a symbol of the fleshly desires that enslave the heart.
G-d provided quail, but their response was one of greed, not gratitude.
They labored day and night to gather it — yet offered no worship, no thanksgiving.
“While the meat was still between their teeth, the anger of the Lord burned against the people.” (v. 33)
That place was called Kibroth Hattaavah — the Graves of Lust — because those who craved were struck down there.
The Spiritual Lesson
This passage holds a timeless warning:
When we are ruled by our desires, we invite judgment;
when we are ruled by the Spirit, we walk in blessing.
Lust always leads to lack.
Those who chased their cravings journeyed from the Graves of Lust to a place whose name means “Lacking.”
Every time we choose self over submission, we end up spiritually empty.
But those who humble themselves and align their will with G-d’s Word experience His fullness.
Key Takeaways
1?? G-d’s Spirit is unlimited.
He moves where He wills — even beyond human expectation.
2?? True leadership multiplies anointing.
Moses rejoiced when others shared in the Spirit; jealousy limits ministry.
3?? Prophecy reveals truth.
The Holy Spirit’s purpose is to bring revelation and call us to obedience.
4?? Desire leads to destruction when misaligned.
The craving for fleshly pleasure leads to spiritual death.
5?? Obedience brings fulfillment.
When we seek G-d’s will above our own, He fills us with His Spirit, His wisdom, and His joy.
Final Reflection
Every believer faces this choice:
Will I walk by the Spirit, or will I live for the flesh?
The wilderness account in Numbers 11 calls us to surrender — to seek the anointing of the Holy Spirit, not the satisfaction of temporary cravings.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” – Matthew 5:6
When we hunger for G-d’s purposes, He not only satisfies us — He changes us.
Learn More
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