Today’s Tasting: Exodus 16-18: The Israelites have been walking in the desert for two and a half months. They are hungry for meat and grumbling against Moses and Aaron for bringing them out of Egypt into the desert, away from their former lives where they had plenty of meat to eat. Moses tells them they are grumbling against God directly, as it was God who appointed Moses and Aaron to lead them out.
God heard their complaints and provided quail in the evening and manna, a wafer-like substance, as their bread, freshly delivered six mornings a week. Moses gave them God’s instruction that each day they were only to collect what they needed for that day. On the day before the Sabbath they were to collect twice as much and rest from collecting on the Sabbath. Even though the instructions were clear, many collected more on the regular days, which rotted and drew maggots. And on the Sabbath day, some went out to collect and found nothing. They disregarded Moses’ instructions and therefore directly disobeyed God.
Soon the people were complaining once again to Moses and grumbling against him. This time they wanted water. God provided water from a rock and the people drank until they were satisfied. In the meantime the Amalekites had gathered to oppose them in war. Moses appointed Joshua to lead the battle while he went with Aaron and Hur to a high peak to pray for the Israelites’ victory. Moses prayed with his arms lifted up toward God. When his arms were lifted up the Israelites were winning and when he grew tired and lowered his arms the enemy became strong against them. So Aaron and Hur propped up Moses’ arms. Then God gave them the victory because of their perseverance.
Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, joined the Israelite camp along with his daughter and Moses’ children. Jethro heard of the great things the God of Israel had done for His people through Moses and he became a believer in the One True God. He saw the strain Moses was under while dealing with the great multitude of Israelites and their daily issues. He wisely counseled Moses to appoint men of integrity as leaders over the people in groups of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens so that Moses would have much help in settling the problems of the people. Then Jethro returned to his home country.
Today’s Nourishment: God is good! He is always good and has already prepared everything you need, from before the foundation of the earth. Although God had already many times shown His miraculous ability to provide what they needed, the Israelites chose to focus on their desert situation instead of being humble before God. They only needed to change their focus from their situation to their God, who was able and ready to provide everything they needed as they followed Him in obedience.
Like Moses in the battle with the Amalekites, we need to keep holy hands lifted toward God—through a praise-filled heart and worshipful attitude—while we are in the battles of life. Remember, God has already prepared all you need and is ready to help you, but you must take your eyes off your circumstances and focus on God, from whom your answers and provision will come.
Also, take a hint from Jethro’s wise advice: Stop trying to do everything yourself. Delegate to people of integrity and seek God’s strength through Jesus to get you along the path you are taking. Jesus is your strength and it is through joy in your relationship with Him that you can draw strength for whatever you’re facing, whether you’re in the wilderness, the midst of battle, or in leadership.
What is God asking you to believe Him for? There is nothing too difficult for God. Focus on Him in praise and adoration. Be specific and ask for His wisdom. Then be still and trust Him, for your victory is on its way.
Tomorrow’s Delight: Exodus 19-21
June Smith
San Antonio, Texas
mjunesmith@gmail.com
June, I am seeking the Lord. In my seeking Him, He has impressed on me to design a group coaching program to implement in the spring or fall of this year. I have been writing, developing, and designing this program to strengthen Christian Women in the 8 Rhythms of Grace. Please help me pray for His wisdom in this designing, marketing, and implementing and that the Lord will use this program to help us live healthy, stable lives.
I join my prayers with yours Carolyn for God’s wisdom, inspiration and provision to accomplish all that He is directing you in. It is a noble mission to help to strengthen Christian women for God’s glory! I believe that millions of lives will be touched through your ministry, including the lives of the families that each woman represents.
Wow, these devotions are so good and I’m learning so much. Thank you June. Yes the joy of The Lord is my strength. I needed to hear that today. Choosing to rise above he situation and putting our focus on Him is the only way to victory. God is teaching me this more and more through life. We’ve got to quit trying to do it ourselves, for we can do nothing in and of ourself, Jesus said in John, but through the Father. Thank you Lord for it is through You that I can see the way forward with strength and preserverence.
Tammy, Remember you are never alone. If you have Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, His Holy Spirit lives in you to accomplish the will of the Father. Keep your heart and your spiritual eyes stayed on Jesus and call on Him for every need. He is an awesome King and loving big Brother! Blessings to you!
First, I want to say, you ladies are all awesome! I am so glad to be a part. I learn new things everyday from the fevotionls and I anticipate reading each and every one. June, so many times I try to do things myself instead of being still, trusting God and waiting on Him to show Himself strong. I want to let God do the work only He can do!