Episode 2483 - Lesson 7 - Sunday August 10 - Bitter Waters

Bitter WatersIn biblical narratives, different roles are played by different characters, good or bad, and we need to pay close attention to plots, places, timing, and villains. However, the most important point in a storyline is usually the solution and the lessons learned. It’s no different in these accounts.As the episodes show, God is the Problem Solver and the Peacemaker; however, His work is complicated by people’s unbelief. Due to their constant murmuring and disobedience, the Hebrews experienced serious complications, even tragedies. They brought upon themselves many difficulties because of their incredulity and unrepentance.Read Exodus 15:22-27. After crossing the Red Sea, what was the background to the first miracle performed?The first test of Israel’s faith is associated with the need for water, not surprising given the harsh, hot, and dry desert environment. After three days of traveling, the people finally found water, but it was undrinkable. Marah means "bitter," and because the water was bitter, Israel’s faith in their caring Lord quickly floundered. However, God reacted with compassion, and the first miracle was performed with a piece of wood. Of course, it was not the wood but the Lord who made the water sweet and drinkable. The people had to learn important lessons: (1) patience in waiting for the Lord’s timing, and (2) that God does things in cooperation with humans.However, the children of Israel took so many things for granted and quickly forgot the great miracles that God had done for them——miracles for which they had just so passionately Sung praises to Him, declaring: "Who is like you, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?" (Exod. 15:11, ESV).And yet, even after their grumbling, God promised that He would not bring upon the Israelites "any of the diseases" (Exod. 15:26, NIV) that had plagued the Egyptians. He would protect them. They could experience this promise only on the condition that they stayed faithful to Him.What trials and struggles have you brought upon yourself? What comfort can you get in knowing that God will still work in your behalf if you cooperate with Him?