Biblical Date: 1446BC
Often the Israelites complained bitterly to Moses:
In the Desert of Shur, three days travel from their Red Sea crossing, the Israelites discovered their drinking water unbearably bitter and they “grumbled”.
Moses spoke to God and God guided him to a special plant, which when added to the water made it safe to drink. Afterwards, God led them to Elim where there was an oasis of twelve wells surrounded by palm trees. There the Israelites rested.
In the Desert of Sin, the Israelites “grumbled” again to Moses and Aaron. Their food supply was limited and they reminded him how they had a plentiful supply of meat and bread in Egypt.
Moses spoke to God and he returned to the people saying, God promises that you will have meat to eat tonight and in the morning a plentiful supply of bread. That evening, quail (a migratory bird) descended on the camp in huge numbers which they cooked and ate. In the morning, the desert was covered with a “flakey substance” which they used to make a sweet bread they called manna. Thereafter, God scattered “manna” nightly in the desert and the people collected it every morning but on the sixth day, they collected a double portion so they could devote the Sabbath to God.
In Rephidim, the Israelites “grumble” was that they had no water. Moses again spoke to God and afterwards, he took some of the elders to Horeb, struck the rock with his staff and immediately water poured out.
Wherever the Israelites went, God provided for their needs. Yet, many still questioned if they had done the right thing by following Moses out of Egypt! (Exodus 15:22-16:36, 17:1-7)
Thought
God graciously continued to provide a daily supply of manna for the Israelites for forty years, until they reached the land of Canaan.
Reflection
Lord Jesus, thank you for all the food received from your merciful bounty yesterday, today and tomorrow. Thank you, Lord, for the doors you have opened and the doors you have closed. Thank you, Lord, for forgiving me my failures and thank you for my faith. Amen.
Prayer: Most Holy Spirit
Most Holy Spirit, beloved of my soul, I adore You.
Enlighten me, guide me, comfort me, console me.
I promise to submit myself to all You desire of me,
And permit all You wish to happen to me.
Give me Your help, tell me what to do.
Most Holy Spirit, bring peace to my world. Amen.
Top Questions:
What was Manna?
It was a fine, flake-like white substance that fell from heaven with the overnight dew. It acquired a seed-like appearance.
Before it melted in the morning sun, it was collected, ground to a powder and baked like bread.
Was there a possible natural source for the “Manna”?
Suggestions include insect secretions, aphid honeydew and lichen. Although all can be used as a food source, each has its limitations. Not least, the nutritional shortfall and quantity required to sustain 600,000 men (excluding women and children) for 40yrs. (Exodus 12)
Why were the Israelites frequently grumbling?
Their most common complaints centred around food, water and a yearning for old Egyptian ways.
However, the real reason for grumbling was their lack of unconditional trust and faith in God.
Why did it take 40yrs to travel from the Red Sea to Israel?
Some suggest the journey could have been as little as ten days, and the food they carried out of Egypt was enough to sustain them.
The delay was caused by the Israelites grumbling and disobedience towards God. God said to Moses, “How long will this wicked congregation grumble against Me?… none of you will enter the land in which I swore to settle you… Your children will be shepherds in the wilderness for forty years…” (Numbers 14)
