THE SCHOOL OF LIFE – Exodus 15
The children of Israel were experts when it came to murmuring or complaining. God at times, even though He is long-suffering and gracious, sometimes had to “discipline” His children to teach them how to behave.
Complaining does not solve problems and if we try and run away from a difficult situation – “back to Egypt”, we will meet the same problems in the new place and still have to solve them. The heart of every problem is the problem of the heart and at this time the heart of the Jews was not right with God. (Exodus 15:23-27)
Moses did the right thing as a godly leader and he took the problem of the bitter waters of Marah to the Lord.
We learn some valuable lessons from Moses living by the way of faith in what was a difficult situation – a thirsty people and bitter undrinkable waters.
Firstly, God can solve our problems by changing things – like making bitter waters sweet.
Secondly, giving us something else – as God led them to the wells of water at Elim.
Lastly and most importantly, by giving us the grace we need to bear with our difficulties and not complain.
It is this last approach that produces a lasting spiritual growth –2 Cor 12: 7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 8 Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Make God grant you His grace this week as you come across difficulties that God has led you to. May you grow closer to Him as you give Him the problem and see His gracious way through your storm!