Pricks, Thorns, and Vexations

A Call to Spiritual Vigilance

Numbers 33:55 states, “But if ye will not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you; then it shall come to pass, that those which ye let remain of them shall be pricks in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall vex you in the land wherein ye dwell.” These words, delivered to the Israelites after they crossed the Jordan, offer a   lesson on the ongoing spiritual battles faced by believers. While many hymns symbolize the Jordan as a metaphor for death and subsequent peace, the true journey after crossing it involves further struggles. Just as Jesus faced Satan after His baptism in the Jordan, believers must be prepared for continuous spiritual warfare even after significant spiritual milestones like conversion or baptism. This passage emphasizes the need for persistent vigilance in driving out remaining spiritual enemies to avoid the pitfalls of pricks, thorns, and vexations.

Pricks Instead of Prosperity

The Hebrew word for “pricks” (צִנִּים, tzinnim) signifies small thorns or briars that cause irritation and hinder progress. In a spiritual context, these pricks represent the subtle influences of worldliness and sin that can entangle a believer, preventing them from experiencing the full prosperity God intends for them. The Apostle Paul exhorts believers in Philippians 3:13-14 to “press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” This pressing on involves actively resisting the pricks that attempt to confine and stifle spiritual growth.

Worldliness manifests in various forms—materialism, excessive media consumption, or unhealthy relationships—that act as pricks, slowly but surely hindering spiritual vitality. John Calvin insightfully remarked, “For the human mind is, so to speak, a perpetual forge of idols.” This highlights the inherent tendency to create and cling to worldly distractions. Christians are called to sanctification, a progressive journey of becoming more like Christ. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 states, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification.” Therefore, believers must be vigilant in identifying and uprooting these pricks, seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance to cultivate a life that flourishes in spiritual prosperity.

Thorns Instead of Testimony

The term “thorns” (שָּׁמִיר, shāmîr) in the Hebrew context can refer to larger, more painful thorns, akin to cactus spines or fishhooks. These thorns symbolize more significant spiritual obstacles that not only hinder personal growth but also mar a believer’s testimony. In the parable of the sower, Jesus explains that some seeds fell among thorns, which choked them, making them unfruitful (Matthew 13:7). Similarly, Christians can become spiritually cold and prickly, repelling others rather than drawing them to Christ.

The Puritans, often misunderstood for their austere lifestyles, exemplified a testimony that was clear-cut and unyielding. Despite criticism, their satisfaction in Christ alone allowed them to live lives that attracted others to the Gospel. The call for believers today is to emulate Jesus, who was never repellent but always inviting. 1 John 4:17 reminds us, “As He is, so also are we in this world.” Our lives should reflect the warmth and compassion of Christ, breaking through the coldness of indifference and hostility. By surrendering the thorns of pride, bitterness, and unforgiveness, we can cultivate a testimony that shines brightly in a dark world, drawing others to the love and grace of God.

Vexation Instead of Victory

The term “vex” (צָרַר, ṣārar) encompasses a range of meanings, including to cramp, harass, or defeat. Allowing pricks and thorns to remain results in vexation, leading to spiritual defeat and preventing believers from experiencing the victory promised in Christ. The Apostle Paul highlights the ongoing nature of this struggle in Romans 7:21-23, where he describes the battle between the law of his mind and the law of sin at work within him. This vexation is a reality for all believers, as sanctification is a continual process of overcoming these persistent obstacles.

To achieve victory, believers must first acknowledge the presence of these pricks and thorns. As C.S. Lewis aptly noted, “No man knows how bad he is till he has tried very hard to be good.” Recognizing our own tendencies towards sin and worldliness is the first step towards overcoming them. The New Testament emphasizes the importance of ongoing repentance and reliance on God’s strength. James 4:7 encourages us to “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” This submission involves a daily commitment to spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, scripture reading, and fellowship with other believers.

Do Not Fraternize with the Enemy

Scripture is clear about the dangers of associating with worldly influences. 2 Corinthians 6:17 commands, “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” This separation is not about physical isolation but about maintaining spiritual purity. Fraternizing with the enemy—whether through compromising relationships or consuming media that glorifies sin—weakens our spiritual defenses. Sociological studies support this, showing that the company we keep significantly influences our behavior and values. Christians must be intentional about surrounding themselves with godly influences that encourage spiritual growth.

Make No Peace Treaty with the Enemy

Compromise is a subtle but dangerous enemy. The Israelites were warned against making treaties with the inhabitants of the land, yet they often failed, leading to idolatry and sin. Similarly, Christians must be wary of making peace with sin. Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote, “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” This call to radical discipleship means no room for compromise. Modern culture often promotes tolerance and acceptance of all behaviors, but believers are called to uphold biblical standards. This may involve making difficult choices, such as ending relationships that lead us away from God or choosing media that edifies rather than corrupts.

Yield No Ground to the Enemy

Finally, believers must be proactive in advancing their spiritual walk. Philippians 3:12-14 emphasizes pressing on towards the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. This involves not only resisting sin but actively pursuing righteousness. Historical examples, like the early church’s resilience in the face of persecution, demonstrate the power of unwavering faith. In contemporary terms, this could mean advocating for biblical truths in a society that often opposes them. Psychologically, studies show that setting and pursuing meaningful goals contributes to overall well-being. Thus, Christians are called to continuously advance, relying on Christ’s strength to overcome every spiritual obstacle.

Conclusion

The message from Numbers 33:55 is clear: believers must be diligent in driving out the remnants of sin and worldliness from their lives. By addressing the pricks, thorns, and vexations that hinder spiritual growth, we can move towards a life of prosperity, a clear testimony, and ultimate victory in Christ. This requires a daily commitment to spiritual disciplines, a separation from worldly influences, and an unwavering pursuit of righteousness. As we do so, we reflect the love and grace of Christ, drawing others to Him and experiencing the fullness of life He promises.

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