‘But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the LORD’s people were prophets, that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!”‘ (Numbers 11:29 ESV).
In Numbers 11, Moses was overwhelmed with the burden of leading Israel, so God took some of the Spirit that was upon Moses and distributed it to seventy elders, enabling them to prophesy. When two men outside the designated group also received the Spirit and prophesied, Joshua wanted to stop them. But Moses’ response was remarkable, rather than being jealous, he longed for the Spirit to be upon all of God’s people. His desire pointed forward to what would one day be fulfilled at Pentecost (Acts 2), when God poured out His Spirit on all believers, not just a select few.
Moses’ longing is now our reality. Through Christ, we live in the age when every believer has access to God’s power, guidance, and gifting by His Spirit. The Spirit is not limited to a chosen few but is given to all who trust in Jesus. This truth should stir us to seek more of the Spirit’s work in our lives, empowering us to live boldly for Christ, share the gospel, and build up the church.
Are you relying on the Spirit today? Remember the command from God’s Word: “Be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18).
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit. Just as You empowered the elders in Moses’ day, fill us afresh with Your Spirit today. Help us to walk in Your power, speak Your truth, and live for Your glory. May we never take Your presence for granted, but seek to be led by You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.