Exodus: Forgetful

After the mighty miracle of the parting of the Red Sea, the Israelites were led to the Desert of Shur. They praised God for his almighty works, and thanked him for saving them. But as they entered Shur, they started to complain about not having water, about the sufferings that tagged along with escaping Egypt. Again, God provided, Moses made the water in the river sweet by throwing wood into it.

The first half of the chapter consisted of the Israelites praising God for his works. And while reading it, it really made me think and reflect on how great this God i worship really is. He parted the sea, he's powerful, straight from the book, "his right hand shattered the enemy", "you blew with your breath and the sea covered them", "the nations will hear and tremble". Fearing God has come up several times these past few weeks, and im honestly truly excited to fear him, i want to see exactly how powerful he is. I understand that we need to fear him, but i dont see it and i dont fully realize it. Im waiting for that sign that big smack in the face that blows me away, opening my eyes to experience this great mighty God. Do we praise God enough and thank him enough for the things he has been doing for us?

At the same time, within a few verses, the Israelites forgot and started complaining again. It was like a spiritual high. Whether if its withs Teens Conference, or Saturday Night Alive, there are so many times in our lives where we have that "high" but it ends up fading away. Even on normal weeks, we can easily forget about God in the midst of all the work and stress we carry. We get frustrated with life and we forget to trust and rely on him.

Just like today, i had a rough day, from waking up to the gloom and rain, to failing my first physics quiz attempt, to working outside in the mud and cold, having it be a long tiring day. There are so many times where it just feels hopeless, what else is there to care for? what could get worse? But i think the fact that i am "alone" at university, really helps and reminds me to turn to God. Sometimes things get frustrating, i feel lonely, and when all else fades, when all seems helpless, i stop in my tracks and i turn to God, asking him for strength to carry on. Im glad that God has given me these challenges and i hope i can learn to turn to him more and more.

And back to the passage, even though the Israelites complained, God loves and continues to provide. With sweet water to quench their thirst and help them carry on. It says in verse 26, if we listen to God, if we strive for righteousness, and if we pay attention to his commands, He will guide and heal you through all darkness and pain.

Where do you stand?
Do you thank the Lord for the blessings in your life?
Do you realize and fear how great our God is?
Do you trust and have faith in Him knowing he provides, loves and will carry you through?

verse of the day: Exodus 15:10-11
¹⁰ 

But you blew with your breath,    and the sea covered them.They sank like lead    in the mighty waters.¹¹ Who among the gods    is like you, Lord?Who is like you—    majestic in holiness,
awesome in glory,    working wonders?