As It Were
Even the quietest murmurs of the heart are known to God—and transformed by trust.
A.B. Simpson draws attention to a subtle but dangerous spiritual behavior described in Numbers 11:1—the people of Israel “as it were” murmured. They weren’t outright defiant, but their hearts whispered complaints that echoed in the ears of the Lord. It’s a phrase that unmasks the veiled rebellion in the hearts of those who wouldn’t dare speak directly against God but insinuate distrust in Him by grumbling about life’s hardships or other people.
Simpson invites us to examine not just what we say aloud, but the tone of our soul. Do we cloak our discontent under the guise of casual complaints? Do we project blame onto our circumstances while harboring subtle disappointment in God’s ways? The warning is sobering: such indirect rebellion is not unnoticed. God hears it, and in Israel’s case, He responded with fire.
This devotional doesn’t aim to scare, but to awaken. It gently exposes that our complaints—especially when “dressed up” as something else—are often covert accusations against the goodness, wisdom, or love of God. Simpson invites us to take heed from Israel’s story and instead of murmuring in disguise, to live in open trust.
📓 Personalized Journal Entry — In the Voice of the Holy Spirit
My beloved, I dwell within you, not merely to improve your behavior, but to reshape the tone of your heart. I do not overlook the sighs or internal objections that arise when things feel unfair or disappointing. I see when your words stop short of complaint but your soul trembles with quiet resistance. You may not say it out loud, but I hear every unspoken protest cloaked in polite discontent.
I am not angry with you, child. I’m inviting you into something better. You are no longer in the wilderness—you are in Me, and I am your life. In Me is no murmuring, only perfect peace. I bore your griefs and carried your frustrations, not to weigh you down but to lift you up. Let My peace guard your heart and mind. When discomfort comes, let gratitude answer first.
Fix your eyes on Me and not the things which are seen, for they are temporary. Let My Word dwell richly in you, teaching your soul to sing even in scarcity. You were once a slave in Egypt, but now you are seated with Me in heavenly places. Why should a child of the King carry the vocabulary of the wilderness?
Do all things without grumbling or disputing, for it is I who work in you both to will and to do My good pleasure. Let your mouth and your meditation be filled with praise, and your countenance will reflect the light of My presence.
Scripture references: Numbers 11:1; Philippians 2:14–15, 4:6–7; Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 2:6; Isaiah 53:4; 2 Corinthians 4:18
🙏 Prayer of Confident Trust
Father, thank You that You know my heart, even when my lips are silent. I rejoice that You don’t leave me to the wilderness habits of murmuring and veiled suspicion. You’ve given me Your Son, Your Spirit, and every spiritual blessing. I trust You with every detail of today. May my words reflect Your goodness, and my silence echo with faith. Even when discomfort comes, I choose to rest in Your care rather than grumble in disguise. You are trustworthy, and You have made Your dwelling in me. I will speak from that place of peace.
Devotional Credit: Days of Heaven on Earth by A.B. Simpson
Image Credit: Unsplash