Jesus is Our Sweet Manna

Heavenly Manna for Your Soul

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Behold, I am about to rain bread

from heaven for you.”  Exodus 16:4

I stood before the table set out with delish treats. Scones, breads, muffins, and donuts on laced dollies called to me and I eagerly loaded my plate with yummy goodness. I quickly turned to find a seat so I could try to enjoy a treat before the women’s Bible study began. I was expectantly looking forward to the experience of being around other Christian moms and connecting with them. Each Wednesday, I was excited to eat the sweet treats and chat with other moms, but I soon found myself looking forward to feasting on God’s Word. It was truly what my heart needed over everything else. 

The Israelites would have given anything to have a spread of delicious treats awaiting them in their desert dwellings. Their hunger created a deep longing to return back to Egypt where, “they sat by the meat pots and ate bread to the full,” and caused them to believe the lie that God was holding out on them and just wanted them to die in the wilderness from hunger (Exodus 16:3-4). Their discomfort of their new digs and life in the wilderness made them forget their cries for freedom as slaves in Egypt. They soon forgot God answered their prayers and the miracles they witnessed. Despite the wandering group’s doubts and complaining, God responds with loving kindness and tells Moses He is going to rain bread down from heaven.  Although the Israelites’ stomachs were empty, their spirit needed more nourishment. Despite the miracles they witnessed up until that point, they still doubted God’s provisions. Similar to my Bible study situation, they showed up for the food, but God knew their hearts were in need of some spiritual nourishment.