It’s never fun to have your reality be different than your expectations. I had this unpleasant experience when I checked my bank account the other day. Considering I just finished my Master’s degree I anticipated a significant raise. Sadly, that is not what I saw when I checked my account.
Although I had plenty of money to pay for the essentials, I was still frustrated. I wondered why I only ever had just enough. Would there ever be a day that my bank account would have a surplus?
The Holy Spirit interrupted my pity party by whispering a question. He asked, “What’s wrong with just enough?”. As usual, the Spirit was prompt and accurate. His question got me thinking about God’s provision specifically manna.
God’s Manna:
When God led His people to the promised land, He took them through a wilderness. Resources were scarce, so the Israelites depended fully on God’s provision. After they grumbled and complained incessantly about their hunger, God rained down a substance called manna from heaven to feed them.
I imagine the first time the people ate the manna, they rejoiced. Being hungry will do that to you! Their need allowed them to see the manna for what it was- a miracle! After 40 years of eating manna day in and day out, they began to feel differently. Understandably, they grew tired of eating manna and craved other options. Thus, the grumbling and complaining ensued, which was not pleasing to the Lord.
What I learned:
It’s not that the Lord did not want them to have variety. The Bible says He is a good Father who enjoys giving His children good gifts. God was disappointed because the Israelites disregarded His provision. They became entitled to more. “Just enough” was no longer satisfying.
Unfortunately, I found myself experiencing an identical sentiment. In my selfishness, I lost my awe for His provision. Thankfully, the Spirit intervened, so I could repent.
I realized that having “just enough” money in my bank account is a miracle. Yes, I would love to have more flexibility with my finances. However, I do not want to be so encapsulated by what I don’t have that I forget what God provides me.
If you find yourself in a similar situation where life feels blah and you only have the bare minimum, please do not feel discouraged. God has promised to meet your every need according to His riches in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). The reality is in some seasons it will look like the bare minimum and in other seasons it will look like abundance. Paul reminds us in Philippians we should rejoice in Him regardless (Phillippians 4:11-13). We all crave the milk and honey of the promise, but this doesn’t make manna less miraculous!
Choose to thank God today for His manna. I promise He loves you dearly and delights in providing for you (Matthew 7:11). I am learning that God is a god of “suddenly”. You never know! Manna may be on the menu for today, but milk and honey could be on tomorrow’s menu. Nonetheless, thank your heavenly Father that He is faithful to meet your needs today!
Until next time,
