First, Moses was more humble than anyone on the face of the earth (1-3). Moses wasn't born humble. He wasn't humble when he killed the Egyptian. Yet, God acknowledged Moses as being extremely humble. God made him humble through Moses being faithful to all of God's house (7). Moses also ministered to the flock, some of which complained about him. Through his struggles as the shepherd of God's people, Moses grew in humility and had a strong relationship with God. God was also helping Miriam and Aaron to be humble. But this came through harsh experiences. Second, God's mercy prevails (4-16). Miriam paid dearly for her complaints. She became leprous, and lived outside the camp for a week. Miriam should have died, and Aaron punished in some way. But God granted a lenient sentence and her healing from the leprosy. God was merciful while at the same time maintaining his justice.
Application: Lord, forgive me of my false pride and help me to grow in humility and in fellowship with you.
One Word: God forgives and grows us in humility.