In Exodus 16 we find the story of the children of Israel being led away from captivity in Egypt. They had to cross the Red Sea, which God parted so they could walk over on dry land, and then they had to make their way through the desert. You can imagine the hardship of traveling through a barren land, but the Lord promised to provide for them. We read in Exodus 16:4, The Lord said to Moses, ‘Look, I’m going to rain down food from heaven for you. Each day the people can go out and pick up as much food as they need for that day.’ What an interesting promise, with much for us to be reminded of today.
First, the Lord promised to provide, but there was also a requirement for the people. He would give the needed food; they had to pick it up. It’s the same in our spiritual worlds. He has provided all the spiritual food we need to face all the hardships of life — but we have to go get it. We have to read and meditate upon His Word. We have to call upon Him and listen for His answer (Jeremiah 33:3). We have to seek the Holy Spirit for understanding of God’s Word, and for strength and peace (Matthew 7:7, John 14:16 & 17). God didn’t spoon feed the Israelites in their hour of need, and He won’t spoon feed us either, but He always provides.
Second, the Lord gave the people what they needed for that day. Again, it’s the same in our spiritual worlds. We face a difficulty today. We want direction, courage, strength, and peace. Our loving Heavenly Father will provide those things — today. Tomorrow He will provide what we need at that time. I have met Christians who share they prayed for specific needs, were blessed with what they needed, but in days following they found themselves in need again, and were surprised. They had assumed a provision today would last for all their days on earth. Our Father will indeed provide each day, but we must seek Him each day, too. Why? Lest we forget.
Our frail minds and self-centered hearts are naturally prone to give ourselves credit when needs are met. We can so easily pat ourselves on the back, our ego filled with praise at what we have done, forgetting so quickly, but for the provision of the Lord we would have nothing. It’s true He gives rain to both the godly and the ungodly (Matthew 5:45). Both the Christian and the non-Christian have food and clothing and shelter. So, what’s the difference? The difference is in knowing your Father. We are not orphans seeking to make our own way in life. We have a Father to whom we may go, and are urged daily to go to Him for all our needs. Our daily requirements are not confined to bread and water. We also need strength and wisdom to deal with demonic influences, spiritual enemies seeking always to kill our peace, steal our joy, and destroy our hope in Jesus (John 10:10).
Never forget, whatever you need today — you are free to go and get it. Go before your Father. Tell Him what you need. Yes, He already knows, but He desires you remember from where your help comes. Why? Because continued focus on Him is key to maintaining daily strength, joy, peace, and insight for all you do — everyday.
What is your need today? Father will provide. Go and get it.