Are My Blessings A Test?
By Carolyn Dale Newell
Monday, August 28, 2017
Then the Lord said to Moses, “Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you. And the people shall go out and gather a certain quota every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in My law or not.” Exodus 16:4 NKJV
The familiar story about God raining down Manna every morning for the Israelites to eat has been one of my favorites. I wonder how this angel food tasted, but I especially love the fact that the people who gathered little still had plenty to eat (Ex. 16:18). That encourages me because it illustrates the provision of God to His children.
Our focal verse clearly explains that the manna was a test. Why haven’t I noticed that before? I started considering my many blessings.
Could they be a test? Do I use my health, my finances, my home, and my talents to honor God? Do I use them to help people in need?
My thoughts proceeded to a deeper question: do I entangle myself with my blessings rather than spending time with God? Do I spend more time on my smartphone than I do in my prayer closet?
Does the TV lull me away from my Bible? When I make a large purchase or plan a vacation, do I ask, “Lord, is this Your will? “ Do I behave like the wilderness wandering Israelites, complaining because I don’t have more?
Our heavenly Father has abundantly blessed us. Even in the bad times, we are always reminded of someone whose situation is worse than our own. In our darkest seasons, we see God’s goodness shining through the storm clouds.
Our greatest blessing was the price Jesus paid on Calvary. If the only thing He did for us was to die for us, we are greatly blessed.
Today, let’s begin to perceive our blessings as an extension of God’s love for us to share with others. Let’s enjoy the One who blesses more than the blessings.
How can you be a blessing to someone this week? Here are some ideas:
- Help an elderly person financially or by spending time with them.
- Invite someone to dinner.
- Help a disabled person with something which needs to be done in their home.
Dear God, let me truly count my blessings, thanking You for them. They are limitless. Show me ways I can share what You have blessed me with, and guard the time I set aside for You daily. In Jesus ‘name, Amen.
© 2017 by Carolyn Dale Newell All rights reserved.
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Originally published Monday, 28 August 2017.
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