The younger generation of Israel was worse than those who perished in the wilderness. They approached the Promised Land but had to pass through the territory of Edom. But Edomites refused passage for Israel. (Numbers 20:14:21) Hence, they had to take a longer route, that is to go further away and turn towards the Promised Land. The people were discouraged and spoke against God. God punished them by sending snakes among them.
Against God: The earlier generation murmured against Moses at least eight times. (Exodus 15:24; 16:2; 17:3; Numbers 12:1; 14:2; 16:3; 16:41; 20:2) Though God knew that they were speaking against him. (Exodus 16:7-8; Numbers 24:27) The younger generation was bold and shameless to speak not only against Moses but also against God. Aaron was dead, and hence he was not a target.
Unbelief: The older generation failed to enter the Promised Land because of unbelief. Murmur is the evidence of unbelief. The younger generation also had the same unbelief, as they were on the verge of entering the Promised Land.
Worthless food: Like their fathers, the younger generation also despised the provision of God. (Numbers 21:4-5) The Bible states that Manna is the bread of heaven for angels. (Psalms 78:23-24) They were like Esau, who valued food more than his firstborn rights. God calls Israel His firstborn. (Exodus 4:21-23)
Ingratitude: When the Israelites grumbled, it was ingratitude. God had delivered Israel from Egypt with a mighty hand. Lord judged the nation of Egypt for the ruthless slavery of Israel for four hundred years. Now, they were forgetful of the great works of God, hence, they slipped into the mood of murmuring against God.
Miraculous sustainment: The delivered slaves were wanderers for forty years. They could have perished in the wilderness but for the provision and protection of God. He was the Pillar of Fire and Cloud twenty-four hours of day. Food was miraculously provided for all forty years. “Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years.” (Deuteronomy 8:4) God clothed them and gave them the stamina to travel for forty years.
Do I have the habit of murmuring?