Scripture to Read: Exodus 15:22–27
God had delivered the Israelites from the Egyptians. Undoubtedly, the Israelites had seen God move mightily and miraculously as He parted the Red Sea and then drowned the entire Egyptian Army in the Red Sea. Today, we read in Exodus 15:22–27 that God had Moses lead the people of Israel for three days into the wilderness. We also read that the water was bitter when they arrived at Marah, so that no one could drink it. Did the Israelites come to Moses and ask him to pray to God and to ask God to take care of their need? Did the Israelites get on their face before God, thank Him again for delivering them, and then ask Him for drinkable water? The obvious answer to both of these questions is, “No!” Instead, the Israelites “grumbled at Moses, saying, ‘What shall we drink?’” (Exodus 15:24). The Israelites had just crossed the Red Sea a little over three days earlier and were now grumbling. We will not experience something like the Red Sea parting, but God miraculously provides for us daily. He gives us the ability to work so we have food to eat, shelter to live in, clothes to wear, vehicles to transport us, and many other things. He gives us the privilege to passionately pursue Him and know Him because His Spirit lives in us. But if we’re not cautious, we can begin to grumble to God about what we don’t have and miss all we do have. Also, don’t miss how God gives His grace and provision in Exodus 15:25–27.
Challenge & Application
· What caused the Israelites to grumble, and how have you fallen prey to grumbling because of your circumstances?
· How have you learned to guard against grumbling and instead thank the Lord for all He has done and is doing?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!