Exodus 16:1-36

God used difficult circumstances – no potable water in sight, food supplies depleted – to test the obedience of His people in ancient times. He uses difficult circumstances to test our obedience, too. Pastor Dave emphasized that God doesn’t test us to discover the state of our hearts; He already knows. He tests us to reveal “where we’re at” to us. When we fail the test, as we so often do, He wants to use the experience to teach and strengthen us. Are you in a tough circumstance right now – perhaps financial or relational or medical? Cry out to the Lord: Father, what are You trying to teach me in this trouble? I don’t want to be so short-sighted or so self-absorbed that I miss it. I believe that You intend this test for my good. Show me what You want me to learn and how you want me to obey.

Pastor Dave reminded us that complete obedience takes training. The desire, or the intention, to obey isn’t enough. We need practice. We need the repeated process of failing to obey, coming to the painful realization that we have failed, and trying again. How patient our Heavenly Father is as He trains us! Lord, help me be patient with myself. Help me persevere in the school of obedience. Don’t let me give up and quit. Don't let me become paralyzed by turning Your healthy conviction into crushing self- condemnation.

One fruit that grows from learning to obey God is contentment. Less and less frequently, we let our “wants” rule our lives. More and more, we are satisfied with what God has given us. The Israelites had to learn to be content with manna as their main food source for 40 years. What have you grumbled about – even just inwardly – in the last week? What don’t you have that you want? In the Lord’s presence, think about the spouse, the job, the home, the physical appearance, the health you do have and make the decision to be satisfied with it.

Calvary Family

Thank God for the successful Christmas Boutique sponsored by Women’s Ministry last Saturday. Vendors welcomed a steady stream of customers, funds were raised for our Fostering Hope ministry, and people simply enjoyed being together on a beautiful SoCal day.

Pray for our elders – Nick DonVito, John Gilbert, Bob Sanchez, Bob Schraeder, and Dave Tebay – as they continue to discuss how to handle Sunday worship on days of inclement weather, given the surge in Covid cases in Orange County. Ask the Lord to guide their discussions and to open their ears to hear His voice.

In Christ,
Carol Gilbert
Calvary Community Church of Brea