The Test

Korah thought he was right. He (and other Israelites) had opinions about the direction of their nation. Certain about his conclusions, he told Moses and Aaron that they were guilty of exalting themselves and had “gone far enough.”

To decide the matter, Moses designed a test. This was an opportunity for God to teach important lessons and establish clear principles. In this test, Korah and his associates were to appear before God. So was Aaron. They all were to acknowledge that God was the ultimate judge. Moses directed that each person would put incense on his firepan and “bring his censer before the LORD.”

Then God angrily told Moses and Aaron, “Separate yourselves from among this congregation, that I may consume them instantly.” When they pleaded with God, He agreed just to punish Korah, the primary one who had sinned. Suddenly the ground split open, and Korah and all who belonged to him were swallowed up.

This test was a clear demonstration that God had chosen Moses and Aaron to lead His people. And Moses was able to prove that his leadership was “not my idea.”

All of us know what it means to have differences of opinions, as well as disagreements about major or minor issues. Minor conflicts can escalate into serious disputes.

There is much we can learn from Korah’s rebellion. Our first reaction to disagreements should be prayer: We should pray about these matters and submit our thoughts and opinions to God. We should seek not our own will, but His. We also should encourage those we disagree with to make the same commitment.

Are there any serious conflicts or disagreements in your life? Commit these issues to God. Ask Him for the answer you need. Seek His will, not your own. And be willing to let Him test your heart.