God's Mercy Is Shown (Conclusion)

"God is more willing to pardon than to punish. Mercy does more multiply in Him than sin in us. Mercy is His nature."  - Thomas Watson

As we have seen, the people of Israel had been growing impatient and unhappy with Moses. Their escape from an abusive security under Pharaoh's rule in Egypt, to an uncertain future out in the desert, was taking its toll.

They were now several weeks out of Egypt, running out of provisions, and low on hope. Understandably, they were tired, hungry, and a little scared. Israel was ready to throw in the towel, and return home.

They may have all but given up on Moses at this point, but God hadn't given up on them. He could have done away with this whiny, complaining, ungrateful, rabble with just a snap of his fingers.

But, thankfully God doesn't work this way, or we'd all be in big trouble! Like a loving, kind, and merciful Father, God hears the cries, and yes, grievances, of His children. "I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel" (Exodus 16:12).

Sometimes, we too may feel as though God could care less about our situation or concerns. But, nothing could be further from the truth. Help is coming, you can count on it. " I will sustain you and I will rescue you"  (Isaiah 46:4).

God took notice of Israel's condition and acted on it. We never have to worry. He knows just what we need, when we need it. "O Lord, my every desire is before You; my groaning is not hidden from You" (Psalm 38:9).

They feared starving to death, so God promised Moses that He would supply food for them. He provided the people with manna (bread) and quail (meat); more than enough to fill their needs (Exodus 16:8, 9). 

This served a dual purpose. First, to demonstrate his regard for, and sympathy toward, them Secondly, God wanted to see whether Israel would trust in, and be faithful to, Him (Exodus 16:12).

We're not so different from those Israelites. When we begin our walk of faith, our hopes and spirits are riding high. Then the initial enthusiasm may start to fizzle out after a while. Frustration, confusion, even anger, may set in.

However, instead of walking away from God, we should be running towards Him. Know that He truly loves us, and would never hurt us. If we are to walk with Him though, we cannot be fickle or wavering. We must trust in His plans for us.

Sure, it can be scary to let go of the familiar and leap out into the unknown. That's why God works with us, step by step, one day at a time. And one day, we too will reach the promised land (Jeremiah 17:7).

Scripture: Hebrews 4:16; James 2:13; Micah 7:18; Deuteronomy 4:31; Romans 9:15

Prayer: Remember your mercy, O Lord, and your steadfast love, for they have been from of old. Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O Lord! - Psalm 25:6-7 (ESV)

Blessings always, 

Cyndy