Exodus 15:22–27 (NKJV)

So Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea; then they went out into the Wilderness of Shur. And they went three days in the wilderness and found no water. Now when they came to Marah, they could not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter. Therefore the name of it was called Marah. And the people complained against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” So he cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet.

There He made a statute and an ordinance for them, and there He tested them, and 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.”

Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve wells of water and seventy palm trees; so they camped there by the waters.

After three days in the wilderness having found no water they have nearly run out. Then they finally find water and it’s undrinkable. Despite the spectacular miracles they just witnessed – and all the celebration of the LORD’s provision – they complained about the situation.

So, what’s wrong with their faith? They understand that God saved them from the Egyptian army; they’re not denying that. So why don’t they expect Him to provide things like water?

It’s a matter of consistency. They know God blessed them but they don’t realize that His provision will be ongoing.

So, God clarifies this – in the form of statute and an ordinance. The promise is conditional. If the Israelites do what is right … I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians.

And don’t miss the ending. He says that this is all because, “I am the LORD who heals you.” This is really about who He is. It’s always about who He is.

To know more about who He is, spend time with Him and His word. That’s why The Fellowship of Ailbe publishes The DEEP. If you’re reading this, then Bible study is part of your life. Good, but what’s next?

If you haven’t checked out all the offerings at ailbe.org recently, you should. We have a wide range of materials – for everyone from new Christians to pastors.

If you really want to up your game, consider pursuing advanced study. Ailbe.org now includes a seminary. The ailbeseminary.org curriculum features two certificate programs designed to equip you with solid theological instruction for more effective ministry. Browse the offerings there and prayerfully consider where God is calling you.

If that level of involvement scares you, good. Serving Christ is supposed to be scary.

The weekly study guides, which include discussion questions, are available for download here:

https://www.ailbe.org/resources/itemlist/category/91-deep-studies