God's Instructions!

For Tuesday, February 11, 2025:

Exodus 16:11-12 NLT: Then the Lord said to Moses, “I have heard the Israelites’ complaints. Now tell them, ‘In the evening you will have meat to eat, and in the morning you will have all the bread you want. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.’”

The people of Israel are once again whining and complaining. And once again God meets their needs. Each of six mornings, manna, a bread flavored with honey, would fall from the sky. In those evenings, flocks of quail would land amongst the Israelites, providing meat for dinner. On the seventh day, the Lord’s day, the food gathered for day six would provide double the amount, so no one would have to work on the Lord’s day.

Having done this, God said, “Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.” God is an eternal optimist! The Israelites soon violate God’s plan. They were told to gather only enough manna for today, about two quarts. Some gathered too little; some gathered way too much. God evened it out; everyone had just enough. They were told to not set any manna aside for tomorrow. Some disobeyed, and found yesterday’s manna full of maggots and funny-smelling. But for some reason (God), the extra gathered on day six would still be fresh and wholesome on the Sabbath. Some of the people went out anyway on the seventh day, but they found no food. The Lord asked Moses, “How long will these people refuse to obey my commands and instructions?” How long, Lord?

In short, when the people of Israel followed God’s instructions, everything worked out great. They would have manna for 40 years until they reached Canaan. That same principle applies to believers and to our lives. If we follow God’s instructions, things always work out better. But if we insist on driving, our car often heads toward the ditch. God’s way is always the best way!

Manna means, “What is it?”

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus In the City Fellowship