Justin Houtz

Numbers 12-13; Psalm 90; Mark 2

DateVersionReading Plan
February 23, 2026ESV (2016)ESV Life Journal Plan – 2026

Numbers 12-13

Observation & Interpretation

In chapter 12 of the Book of Numbers, an incident is recorded that Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of his Cushite wife. There are multiple explanations as to the identity of this Cushite woman, but the underlying reason for their enmity was “Moses’s authority as God’s primary spokesman.” (CSB Notes) The LORD confronted all three of them and proceeded to tell them that while the LORD made Himself known to prophets through visions, He spoke to Moses mouth to mouth. The LORD’s anger was kindled against them and Miriam was struck with leprosy. Aaron asked Moses not to punish them because of their foolishness and Moses cried to the LORD to heal Miriam. The LORD spoke to Moses that Miriam was to be shut outside the camp seven days and this was done as the LORD had spoken. After this, the people set out from Hazeroth and encamped in the wilderness of Paran.

It was the selfish motivation and lack of recognition on the part of Miriam and Aaron of Moses’ special, prophetic appointment by the LORD that incurred their just punishment. May it be for us to see the dire consequences of rebellion against a holy and righteous God. Indeed, this is where our hearts our naturally set as the sons of Adam. Only by the punishment taken by Jesus on our behalf on the cross and being covered by His righteousness are we granted a place in His presence.

Mark 2

Observation & Interpretation

The healing of the paralytic in Mark 2 contains a crucial teaching regarding Jesus earthly ministry and the wondrous works He performed. As the BBC points out, “The Lord had already pronounced the man’s sins forgiven. Yes, but had it really taken place? The scribes could not see the man’s sins forgiven, therefore they would not believe. In order to demonstrate that the man’s sins had really been forgiven, the Savior gave the scribes something they could see. He told the paralytic man to get up, to carry his straw pad, and walk.” Jesus’ healing of the paralytic was to provide a means that they may know that He—the Son of Man—has authority on earth to forgive sins. The physical restoration was a signpost of a much greater healing and “to recognize that He had authority to act with God’s power.” (FSB)

The fact that God can and does heal people physically should not be overlooked or undermined, but must be understood within the broader context of God’s ultimate plan. In our shortsightedness, we can wrongfully attribute too high a value to physical health and well-being. While such things are certainly gifts of God’s grace, they should never eclipse the supreme worth of the Gift Giver.

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