Exodus 16:1-19:25

This section has two of my favorite stories in the entire Old Testament.  The first is the story of the manna and quail from heaven.  The Israelites were wondering through the desert and started to complain that they were hungry.  So God provides manna and quail to quench their hunger.  However, the manna only lasts for one day and then goes bad, except for the manna collected on the day before the Sabbath which lasts for two days.  If you want to listen to a sermon I gave on this passage you can click here; I’m not totally happy with the end and if I gave it again I know how I would change it.

The second story from this passage is Moses receiving advice from his father-in-law.  Jethro advises Moses to appoint elders to take care of some of the needs of the community.  I once preached a father’s day sermon on this passage, but I don’t think I have a recording of that sermon.

I find it amazing that God was willing to provide for His people even while they were complaining.  However, God provided for them in such a way that they were forced to build up there trust in God; they had to have faith that God would provide for them again tomorrow.  I think this passage illustrates that God is an amazing teacher.

I ask every father whose daughter I am marrying off to read the story of Jethro’s advice to Moses.  Jethro came, observed, offered a helpful suggestion once, and then went home.  If you want to have a healthy relationship with your son-in-law you should follow this example.  When you visit look around before you say anything.  When you make a suggestion only make it once, if the kids want to follow it they will, if they don’t then drop it.  Then go home, if you never overstay your welcome you will have a happier relationship with your son-in-law.

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