October 12

God's Largesse And Bounty

They spoke against God, saying, “Can God really prepare a table in the wilderness? When He struck the rock, water gushed out and torrents raged. But can He also give bread or supply His people with meat?” — Ps 78:19-20 BSB

So they ate and were well filled, for He gave them what they craved. — Ps 78:29 BSB

The cry of unbelief is always “Can God?” whereas the shout of faith is “God can.” How much difference a rearrangement of words can make! “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?” becomes “God can spread a table, even in the wilderness,” and even in the presence of our enemies, our cup can overflow. “Can He provide bread also?” becomes “He can satisfy the desire of every living thing by the opening of His hand.” “Can You do anything for us? Our child is possessed.” becomes “If you can believe, all things are possible to those who believe.”

The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for forty years because they focused on their difficulties and questioned if God could overcome them. Only Caleb and Joshua looked beyond the fortified cities and giants to the God who had brought them this far and was faithful to finish what He started. Some people magnify the size of their problems, forgetting the greatness of their God. It’s no wonder they feel like grasshoppers! But let us remember that we are sons and daughters of God, heirs of God, and co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).

Look back at all that God has done for you. Remember that He is committed to completing what He began. If He gave you water in the past, He can surely provide bread now.

“They ate and were well filled.” We tend to humble ourselves in prayer when we are poor and in need, but when our circumstances change and we find ourselves with abundance, we often become indulgent and forgetful of God’s provision. We may even begin to feel like owners of our blessings rather than stewards. This might be why God keeps some of us in poverty, for no greater temptation could come to us than riches. In this way, He answers our prayer: “Lead us not into temptation.”

Prayer

We thank You, Heavenly Father, for the new mercies of each day. We are grateful for all You have given us and for what You have withheld. May we be receptive to all things that pertain to life and godliness. Amen.