"Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank: and Moses was wroth with them."
Context:Exodus 16 recounts the events following the Israelites’ escape from Egypt and their journey in the wilderness. They had been wandering for about a month since leaving Egypt and were now facing a shortage of food. In response to their complaints, God promised to send bread from heaven, known as manna, to sustain them.
Disobedience and Provision:In this verse, we see that although God had instructed the Israelites to gather only enough manna for each day, some of them disregarded the command and kept the manna overnight. Their disobedience led to unpleasant consequences. The manna they had stored bred worms and stank, becoming unfit for consumption. This incident served as a lesson in obedience and trust in God’s provision.
Trusting in God’s Daily Provision:The Israelites’ disobedience reflected a lack of trust in God’s promise to provide for their needs on a daily basis. God wanted them to rely on Him day by day, teaching them to depend on His faithfulness and not on their own efforts. By instructing them to gather manna each morning, God wanted them to develop a habit of trusting Him for their sustenance.
Lessons for Christians Today:This account holds relevance for believers today. It reminds us of the importance of trusting in God’s provision and guidance in our lives. Just as the Israelites had to rely on God for their daily bread, we need to trust that God will provide for our needs. Jesus taught us to pray, "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11), emphasizing our dependence on God’s daily provision.
Obedience and God’s Favor:Moses’ reaction to the disobedience of the people shows the seriousness of their actions. Moses was angry with them because they disregarded God’s command. Obedience is crucial in our relationship with God. When we obey His instructions, we demonstrate our love and reverence for Him. Disobedience can lead to negative consequences and hinder us from experiencing God’s favor and blessings.
Application:As we reflect on Exodus 16:20, we should examine our own lives and consider areas where we may struggle with disobedience or lack of trust in God’s provision. Are there areas where we are trying to rely on our own efforts rather than relying on God? Let us remember to trust in God’s daily provision, obey His commands, and seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives.
Remember, studying the Bible involves reading and meditating on the Word of God, seeking understanding, and applying its principles to our lives.
