Book of Numbers - Chapter 14 - Verse 9
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Numbers, Moses is reminding the Israelites not to rebel against the Lord or fear the people of the land they are about to enter. He reassures them that the inhabitants of the land are like bread to them, meaning they can easily be conquered and overcome. This is because the defense of the people has departed from them, leaving them vulnerable to defeat. Moses reminds the Israelites that the Lord is with them, so they should not be afraid of their enemies. The message of this verse is one of encouragement and faith in the power of the Lord to protect and guide His people. It serves as a reminder to trust in God's strength and to not be swayed by fear or doubt. By following God's commands and staying faithful to Him, the Israelites will be victorious in their battles and conquer the promised land.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the Israelites are being encouraged not to rebel against the LORD or fear the people of the land they are about to conquer. The phrase "for they are bread for us" may seem strange at first, but when we examine it more closely, we see that it signifies the ease with which the Israelites will be able to defeat their enemies with the help of the LORD. The use of the word "bread" here is symbolic of sustenance and nourishment, indicating that the people of the land will be easily overcome and destroyed. This verse serves as a reminder to the Israelites that their victory is assured as long as they trust in the LORD and do not give in to fear. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's protection and guidance, rather than relying on human strength or abilities. It reassures believers that with God on their side, there is no need to fear or be discouraged by the challenges they face, as the LORD is their defender and support.