EXODUS 15:22-26.
The bitter water at Marah was symbolic of what was taking place in the hearts of the people of Israel. They had suffered terribly in Egypt and had been more than happy to leave the bondage that Pharaoh had inflicted upon them. However, when freedom was not as easy or pretty as they had hoped; when they had to rely on God completely for everything and circumstances were not what they desired, their hearts began to be filled with the diseases of bitterness and resentfulness. God knew their need for healing from bitterness and He longed to bring that healing to them. Unfortunately, they turned from Him each time they faced a challenge.
Let us apply this lesson to our hearts today. When God does not work in our lives in the way that we think He should, do we grow bitter? Do we begin to plan ways that we can make things happen through our own efforts? When God’s timing is different than we had hoped, do we harbour resentment against Him?
He is Jehovah Rapha – the Lord who heals us – and He longs to heal us of resentfulness, bitterness, and pride if we will but trust Him and walk before Him in obedience. Let us allow Him to examine our hearts and heal us today.
