The Israelites disobeyed God in numerous ways during their 40 years wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. Here are some of the key instances:
* Complaining and Murmuring: The Israelites constantly complained about their hardships, lack of food and water, and the dangers of the wilderness (Exodus 15:24, 16:2-3, 17:3). They even expressed regret for leaving Egypt, suggesting they preferred slavery to the challenges of freedom.
* Lack of Faith: Despite witnessing God's miraculous deliverance from Egypt and His provision in the wilderness, the Israelites repeatedly doubted His ability and willingness to fulfill His promises (Numbers 14:1-4). They feared the inhabitants of Canaan and lacked faith that God would help them conquer the land.
* Golden Calf Incident: While Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments, the Israelites grew impatient and demanded that Aaron make them a god to worship. Aaron fashioned a golden calf, and the people offered sacrifices and celebrated before it, committing idolatry (Exodus 32).
* Rebellion against Moses and Aaron: The Israelites challenged the authority of Moses and Aaron, questioning their leadership and God's choice of them (Numbers 16). Korah, Dathan, and Abiram led a rebellion, accusing Moses and Aaron of exalting themselves above the congregation.
* Disobedience at Kadesh Barnea: When the Israelites reached Kadesh Barnea, near the border of Canaan, Moses sent out twelve spies to scout the land. Ten of the spies returned with a negative report, emphasizing the strength of the Canaanites and their fortified cities. The people believed the negative report and refused to enter the Promised Land, rebelling against God's command (Numbers 13-14).
* Consorting with Moabites: The Israelites engaged in sexual immorality and idolatry with the Moabite women. This was initiated at the counsel of Balaam (Numbers 25).
* Quarreling at Meribah: In the wilderness of Zin, the Israelites lacked water and quarreled with Moses. God told Moses to speak to a rock to bring forth water, but Moses, in anger, struck the rock twice. This act of disobedience and lack of trust in God resulted in Moses being barred from entering the Promised Land (Numbers 20:2-13).