Receiving Your Daily Bread

Relieved and ready to celebrate, the Israelites had been freed from bondage! But then they faced reality: Where were they to find food? After they complained to Moses, God said He would feed them in a miraculous way. Every morning, He would “rain bread from heaven.” They called it “manna,” and everyone was to “gather a day’s portion every day.” The only exception was the day before the Sabbath, when they were to gather enough for two days. This was a “test” to see if they would trust God and walk in His instruction (Exodus 16).

For 40 years, manna appeared six days a week. Then, suddenly, on the very day they could get food from the Promised Land, the manna ceased to appear.

Had God stopped caring? No. They were entering a new phase. It was time to utilize the resources He had given them.

God wants us to have faith that He will provide for us, even in miraculous ways. Jesus taught us to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” We aren’t to worry about the future, “for tomorrow will care for itself” (Matthew 6:11, 34). But He also wants us to use the resources He’s given to us. As Paul wrote, “If anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

Today, remember God’s promise to provide your daily bread. Trust in Him, and do not worry about the future. But also remember your part: Do not take His blessings for granted. Be responsible, a faithful servant. And wisely employ the resources He’s given to you.