Be Thankful for Manna

Times are tough and many are without jobs or getting jobs that may not be their top choice yet God continues to provide. I was thinking of how to be more intentional in my conversations with people I interact with from day to day and the Holy Spirit nudged me with this question, “What has God been teaching you lately?” When times are tough due to a lack of funds, an illness in your family, or consequences of unwise decisions, there is always a lesson to be learned or an even greater opportunity to see God provide.

Think back with me to the time of the Israelites wandering in the desert. Do you
remember this passage from Numbers 11:4-6 “The rabble with them began to crave other food, and again the Israelites started wailing and said, ‘If only we had meat to eat! 5 We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost—also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic. 6 But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!’ " ? I am not going to tell you that they had it easy hanging out in the desert but they were in the desert because God had saved them from a life of slavery in Egypt. The Israelites seemed to be forgetting how awful life was in Egypt, but what was even more significant was their oversight in God continually providing for their daily needs.

Ponder this question, “What is God teaching you at this moment in life?” Is He drawing you into a deeper trust in Him? Is He teaching you the importance of being wise with the money He blesses you with? Is He nudging you to be more generous to those around you in need? Some of you may be learning of the impact the friends you choose have on your life. God may be teaching some of you teens the importance of working hard in school as you see the impact it can have on your life in the years to come. Whatever circumstances and trails you face open your eyes and heart and listen for what God is teaching you. Don’t over look the Manna laid out before you. Cherish the memories of God’s presence in the tough times, they will strengthen your trust and faith in the future.
— Will Tucker