Exodus 17:2a
‘Therefore the people quarreled with Moses and said, “Give us water that we may drink.” ‘
It’s a good thing that Moses has been revered over time. He certainly earned it. This is unique. He is leading millions of recently enslaved people through the desert. God is showing renewed interest in them: the Egyptian miracles, the leading of the cloud and the pilar of fire, parting of the Red Sea and the miracles of provision. Before this, the works of God were stories and they were never so dramatic.
One would think that with the numerous miracles the people would get it. They would stop the sour attitudes and the arguing. This proves a point that was made by Jesus. He told the story of the Rich Man and Lazurus. The rich man is in hell and he asked Abraham to send a warning to his brother’s, who were still alive. He said, “No. They have Moses and the prophets”. Lazurus then said, “No, father Abraham, but if someone returns from the dead, they would surely repent.” Here is Abraham’s answer in Luke 16: 31, “But he said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.’” He is saying that miracles don’t produce faith.
Miracles have a purpose. They do prove that God is involved. They don’t cause one to believe, just a justification for it. The newly freed Hebrews had seen great things. They were the recipients of them. As can be seen, they respond impatiently. This isn’t of faith. Jesus said in John 11:40, “Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” We naturally think that seeing is believing. Jesus says it’s the opposite.
Unfortunately, we can’t point a finger of blame. Believers have had plently of instances of His deliverance. We have the bible to hear God’s word whenever we choose. Yet, we still are shocked when we are unjustly treated. We get impatient when we have to suffer for a time that seems longer than necessary.
The people are demanding a miracle, “Give us water that we may drink.” We also do this. We realize that God is involved in our lives, but we think things get out of control. We grumble.
The longer we walk with God, the more patient we should be. Lord, help us to trust You. Lord, help us to trust You, even when it’s longer than we think.