Exodus 17 -- Looking For An End

My commentary points out that “the Lord was still directing Israel into difficult and trying situations in order to prove His power and build their faith and character … Israel’s faith in God was very weak, for they thought their God had led them to a place where He couldn’t care for them.”  They were thirsty and had arrived at Rephidim but found no water.  They were almost ready to stone Moses!  God directed him to take some older leaders and come to Him where He would be standing on a rock at Mt. Sinai and He would make water gush forth from the rock, proving His watchcare over them.

 

After receiving this gift of pure water, the Israelites then had to face the attacking Amalekites.  God combined His power from heaven, Joshua’s battle skills, and Moses’ intercession, assisted by Aaron and Hur, to produce the victory.  My commentary pointed out that while we might not be soldiers in the battle, “all Christians can be like Aaron and Hur and help hold their hands as they obey God,” sharing in the battle by continuing steadfastly in prayer.

 

God also seemed to have a personal note for me today.  My younger son has been suffering from a stomach ailment for 10 days now, missing a lot of school.  My commentary started this chapter with a story that really seemed out of place, but certainly was right on time for me:  David Livingstone’s difficult and demanding years exploring Africa led him to rest his faith and his future on the parting words of Jesus, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.”  One would think that he was focused on God’s constant presence, but in his journal, he noted something else:  “It is the word of a gentleman of the most strict and sacred honor, so there’s an end to it!”  He saw in Jesus’ words not just His guaranteed presence, but the promise of an end  to the trials he’d been facing.

 

Father, I need intercession from others with You today.  I need my brothers and sisters to lift up my family.  My son needs physical healing.  We are all being spiritually attacked.  God, please fight this battle for us!

 

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford