Thanks, And Praise Followed By Forgetfulness
OPENING PRAYER:
Lord, as we face difficult situations that come into our lives help us to focus on you. Amen
READ: Exodus 15,1,11-12, 16:2-3 NLT
Then Moses and the people of Israel sang this song to the LORD: "I will sing to the LORD, for he has triumphed gloriously; he has hurled both horse and rider into the sea. [11] "Who is like you among the gods, O LORD- glorious in holiness, awesome in splendor, performing great wonders? [12] You raised your right hand, and the earth swallowed our enemies. Exodus 15:1,11-12 NLT
[2] There, too, the whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron. [3] "If only the LORD had killed us back in Egypt," they moaned. "There we sat around pots filled with meat and ate all the bread we wanted. But now you have brought us into this wilderness to starve us all to death."
Exodus 16:2-3 NLT
REFLECT:
What I appreciate about the Old Testament is that it demonstrates that human nature has not changed or improved over the years. In yesterday’s devotion the Israelites were celebrating being set free by God from the slavery and oppression of the Egyptians. They had witnessed God’s miraculous parting of the Red Sea so they could cross on dry land and seen the Egyptian army destroyed. They should continue to be happy that God is leading them, but like us today they begin to complain when things get tough.
The Life Application Bible has an excellent commentary on Exodus 16:2-3. “It happened again. As the Israelites encountered danger, shortages, and inconvenience, they complained bitterly and longed to be back in Egypt. But as always, God provided for their needs. Difficult circumstances often lead to stress and complaining is a natural response. The Israelites didn’t really want to be back in Egypt; they just wanted life to get a little easier. In the pressure of the moment, they could not focus on the cause of their stress (in this case, lack of trust in God); they could only think about the quickest way of escape.”
APPLY:
The Life Application Bible continues with advice to us today when we feel like the Israelites did. “When pressure comes your way, resist the temptation to make a quick escape. Instead, focus on God’s power and wisdom to help you deal with the cause of your stress.”
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, help me to rely on Your Holy Spirit to guide me through both good and bad times. Amen