Reading the Bible Through

Numbers 19 - 21   I find it interesting that the Israelites accuse Moses of bringing them to this terrible place. Moses had taken them directly to the land of Canaan, following with milk and honey, but the Israelites sinned and then had to be nomads in the dessert 40 years. To me, it seems that the Israelites got themselves into this mess by not trusting the Lord. I'm sounding judgy this morning.  Moses strikes the rock instead of speaking to it. The scripture says that this shows that Moses and Aaron  did not trust in the Lord enough to honor him as holy  in the sight of the Israelites, so Moses and Aaron will not bring this community into the land of Canaan. What symbolism am I missing that striking the rock, rather than speaking to it, keeps Moses and Aaron from entering the land of Canaan. Later, it says it is because both Moses and Aaron rebelled against the Lord's command.  I wonder why Edom doesn't let the Israelites pass through?  Now we hear of ano...

Exodus 17 - 19   In 17:8, Moses says to Joshua. Where did Joshua come from? I think this is the first mention of Joshua. I also notice that Hur is now mentioned. Moses' father-in-law brings Moses's wife and sons to him. When had Moses sent them away? Was it so they would avoid all the plagues in Egypt? I also wonder how Jethro, Moses' father-in-law knew where to find them since they were nomads wondering in the dessert.  Moses' father-in-law cautions Moses against wearing himself out. With hustle culture, definitely advice we need today. You cannot pour from an empty pitcher.