Numbers 14:3,4 “Why is the LORD bringing us into this land, to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will become plunder; would it not be better for us to return to Egypt?” So they said to one another, “Let us appoint a leader and return to Egypt.” We all have pain, stress and worry in our lives. Our friends listen to us and empathize. At times our emotions can get toxic. They begin to justify it by saying it’s because of the women and children. God’s guidance brings us to uncomfortable places. It’s ok to share our frustrations. We need to yield to Him at the conclusion. Sharing is therapeutic when we come to a place of yielding. Sometimes those that listen to us exacerbate our frustrations and pain. It’s like pouring gasoline on a fire. This sharing is toxic. Phrases like, “you deserve…” or “they can’t treat you like that” don’t help. God won’t allow us to be tempted beyond our abilities (1 Cor 10:13). The Israelites have seen God do amazing things. He was leading them into Canaan’s land. There were challenges there. They acted in a way which ignored all His prior provision. I realize 400 years of slavery and silence is behind some of this. But God expected trust. It’s ok to be afraid, we can’t allow it to get to the point of distrust. In the end we need to yield to His guidance and trust Him. He understands our fears. We can bring them to Him. We do need to factor faith into this. Faith can praise Him amidst the difficulties. This is 180 degrees from fear. We need to submit it to Him and look away. Don’t focus on it any longer. Know that He’ll take care of it. That is faith. It’s one step further to praise Him. Lord, thank You that You can help us in difficulties. Help us to bring our hurts to You and to good listeners. Help them not to grow toxic.