Done Any Grumbling Lately?

And in the morning you will see the glory of the LORD, 

because he has heard your grumbling against him. Exodus 16:7

Moses said these words to the Israelites who were grumbling like crazy - again. God delivered them from slavery in Egypt and they saw Him perform miracle after miracle. But, when it came time to eat one evening, they started complaining again.

"We wish you'd just left us back there in Egypt. We were slaves but at least we had lots to eat. What good is being free if we starve to death?"

Moses' first words?  “And in the morning you will see the glory of the LORD.”

We can all agree with that. Sunrises proclaim His glory. I might even stretch it so far as to say a cup of steaming coffee declares His glory.

Who do you suppose the “you” refers to?

Someone who seeks Him. Someone who walks with Him every day. Certainly someone who’s obedient.

Not so fast! Read the rest of the verse, “because he has heard your grumbling against him.”

He chose to show His glory—His mercy and grace—to the very same people who complained, who didn't trust Him, and who doubted His provision. He didn't zap them into pieces of coal. He understood their weak faith and and revealed Himself to them in a way that would bolster their confidence in Him.

I'm one of those people. We all are.

We've seen God do some awesome things but, at the slightest hint of trouble, we grumble.
We don't trust Him. We doubt His love.

It’s amazing that our Father God responds to our lack of faith and our grumbling with love rather than to thump us on the head (my Mom’s favorite mode of scolding).

But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, 

abounding in love and faithfulness. Psalm 86:15

When did you last praise God for His infinite patience?

When has He shown you grace when you deserved a thump in the head?

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