This call to praise points once again to the time after the exodus, the time that the Hebrews were in the desert subsisting on the manna that God provided. Rather than the gratitude that this gift warranted, they complained that it wasn’t exactly what they wanted or expected. In the NRSV translation, vs. 17 reads, “Some were sick through their sinful ways, and because of their iniquities endured affliction.” The NIV uses the word “foolish” in place of “sick,” which, according to commentaries, is a better translation of the original Greek. The Hebrews were foolish to complain about the quality of the gift and they suffered the consequence of that foolishness. Many times, we view our sin as something shameful, something broken, but I’m not sure we often think of it as foolishness.
Like the Hebrews, we might find ourselves complaining about the quality of the many gifts we are given – about the clear evidence of God’s care and provision. How foolish it is – and what price we pay – when we are never satisfied. True wisdom is looking around, recognizing the gifts for what they are – an expression of God’s love and care – and giving thanks for where you are, what you have, who you are with, and what you are learning.
What, in your life, do you tend to complain about the most? How might that be foolishness? What gifts are you missing when you are busy complaining?
Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for the many ways God provides and cares for you.