READ
Exodus 16
CONSIDER
Last week, we reflected on the narrative of the Red Sea and witnessed the faithfulness of our God. The Israelites saw the mighty power of God as He defeated the armies of Egypt, so that they would know that He is the Lord. Their hearts were filled with joy, and they lifted their voices in praise to God.
Yet after this great miracle, they continued their journey into the wilderness, perhaps expecting that they would soon enter into the promises of God. Instead, they found themselves thirsty and hungry. As they waited, their patience faded and they began to grumble against God. After experiencing such a remarkable miracle, the Israelites returned to the ordinary routines of life, while the fulfillment of God’s promises still seemed far away.
This week, we will explore one of the most well-known narratives in Exodus—the provision of manna in the wilderness. Through this passage, we will learn how to continue living out a resilient faith in the long and ordinary journey of life, and how to remain faithful to God even while we wait for His promises to be fulfilled.
Pastor Julian Wong
PRAY
Heavenly Father, we thank You for being with us through every season of life—through thick and thin, through every high and low. Thank You for Your patience with us, even when we grumble and struggle in our faith. You never forsake us, and Your grace and mercy are always with us. May Your Spirit continue to encourage and guide us to remain faithful to You and to live out our faith, so that Your name may be glorified. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
DIVING DEEPER
How can we experience God’s provision in the ordinary rhythms of daily life?
Have we ever found ourselves grumbling against God? What does that reveal about our hearts, and how does this week’s sermon speak to that?