Read Exodus 15:22-27
GOD'S people, Israel, did not linger long on the victory side of the Red Sea. They began the long journey to the Promised Land. With deliverance from Egypt fresh in their minds and songs in their hearts, they set out.
After three days of travel, the thirsty Israelites found no water until they reached Marah. The water there, however, was bitter and undrinkable. This was no small disappointment. Instead of trusting God, they turned against Moses. It was a test of their faith, and they failed.I too have failed tests of my faith when faced with bitter disappointment. I have learned, however, that God is there for us even in the bitter circumstances of life. God provided for Israel by sweetening the waters at Marah. In the same way, God will not forsake us in our time of need.
Spiritual failures need not defeat us. We must not camp at Marah in despair. We can move on to the oasis at Elim, as the Israelites did, with its springs and palm trees.Even when we fail to trust, God is faithful to help us.
By Earl C. Wolf