For Whose Sake?

Deuteronomy 3:26 KJV

But the LORD was wroth with me for your sakes, and would not hear me: and the LORD said unto me, Let it suffice thee; speak no more unto me of this matter.

Deuteronomy 4:21 KJV

Furthermore the LORD was angry with me for your sakes, and sware that I should not go over Jordan, and that I should not go in unto that good land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance:

Moses was refused entrance into the Promised Land on account of his sin of smiting the rock. But here he said that God would not hear his prayers asking God to repent and allow him entrance for the sake of the congregation. It was a lesson they must learn; God though exceedingly gracious, and Whose mercies are from everlasting, expects our obedience. Especially in those who lead, they must never presume leadership but forever see themselves as under the authority of God. 

Moses had never been in charge. It was never about

• The greatness
• The example
• The amazing

faith of Moses. This was God's doing and Moses was merely blessed to be in on it. 

What a terrible situation we have gotten ourselves into these days when we toss out the names of men as if some great thing was inherent in them. We name our buildings after them. We gather together around them as if making pilgrimage to our own Mecca. We have forgotten the lesson of Moses; all men are sinners. Any man may be replaced. We worship God.