“But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!” — Numbers 11:6
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We read and learn in the Old Testament of how the Israelites had been delivered from slavery in Egypt. They witnessed first-hand the miracles of God with the 10 plagues and the crossing of the Red Sea. They were on their way to the Promised Land, but found themselves journeying through the wilderness. God comes through for them again and again by giving direction and provision for His people. He miraculously provides water and even food — “manna,” which literally falls from Heaven.
Just like the Israelites in Numbers 11, I can find myself losing the awe of God’s provision and His miracle. I am in no way judging the Israelites, as I’m confident I would do the same thing — complain! They begin to murmur, thinking about the meat they used to eat back in Egypt. They find themselves complaining and remembering what it used to be like eating the fish, the cucumbers, the melons, the onions and garlic.
I’ve shared this quote with several players I’ve coached and even my own children, as I remind myself of it often: “Instead of complaining about the things we don’t have, let’s be thankful for the things we do have.” Gratitude is the antidote. Are we thankful for our manna? Am I grateful for God’s protection, His provision, His blessings in my life? Or do I get caught up looking in the rearview mirror of life, reflecting and remembering what it used to be like, just like the Israelites thinking back on their time as slaves in Egypt?
Maybe you find yourself looking out the “car windows” of life with your head turning side to side, constantly comparing your life to others — comparing your house, your job, your spouse, or even your family with the neighbors. Wishing you had a boat and the two matching jet skis (I live in Florida). We scroll through social media wishing we had their life, their vacation home, their story.
Complaining and comparison will crush your calling — I’ve experienced this personally.
God wants us to focus on the windshield. Focusing on Him and keeping our eyes fixed on Christ is what we read in Hebrews 12:2, “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith…” It’s imperative to focus on Him and what He has planned for our lives. As believers, our Promised Land is Heaven, and we need to remind ourselves to be thankful and enjoy the miracles of salvation, health, our job, our ministry and our family. My prayer is that we have an attitude of gratitude — that we intentionally and consistently take the time to express our thankfulness to God for who He is and what He does.
I’ve been challenged with the concept of “aggressive appreciation” and “obnoxious thankfulness.” Again, being grateful for Him and to Him, but also grateful to those whom I’m blessed to do life with.
Prayer: “Father, please forgive me for the times that I lose my appetite for You and Your blessings. Thank You for my manna and providing for my daily needs. May my heart’s desire be to crave You and seek You with all of my heart. I love You.”
— Jim Good
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