Daily Devotions
They had traveled for three days without water.
When the children of Israel finally came to Marah, they were disappointed to discover that the waters there were bitter and undrinkable.
The people complained bitterly. They grumbled that Moses would bring them into the desert with nothing to drink. But Moses prayed. He cried out to God, looking for some way for the people to be delivered. And the Lord did a miracle at Marah!
The Lord showed [Moses] a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet (Exodus 15:25, NKJV).
The place of bitter waters is on the life-map for every person – including you and me.
Can you think bitterness you’ve experienced in your life?
When your children turn away from their faith.
When your doctor gives you a bad report.
When you lose your job or your business.
When your marriage falls apart.
When a friend betrays you.
When you’re overwhelmed by discouragement and fatigue.
What can we do in those “bitter water” times? If we follow Moses and cry out to God, we’ll see the Lord work mightily to make the bitter waters sweet!
As God transformed the bitter waters, He also revealed a new aspect of Himself. He said:
If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you. (Exodus 15:26, NKJV).
Our God is “Jehovah-Rophe,” which means “the Lord who heals.” The word rophe means “to cure,” “to restore,” “to heal,” or “to make whole.” Just as God healed the bitter waters of Marah, He is able to heal the bitter times, bitter feelings, and bitter experiences of your life.
Have a great day and keep moving forward!
Suggested Bible Reading
Prayer Guide
Today as you pray …
- Praise God that He is faithful to His promises.
- Ask for listening ears to heed His voice and to do what is right in His sight.
- Bring the bitter waters of your life to Him – emotional pain, physical sickness and disease, and spiritual struggles.
- Cry out to Him for healing as your “Jehovah-Rophe.”