LifeBlog (continued)
Bread from Heaven
In desperation we cry out to God, "I am hungry for you. I am thirsty for you!" Jesus said that He is the bread from heaven. We are to eat his flesh and drink his blood, assimilating into our lives who He is by faith. He is our satisfying bread! As with the manna, everyday there is a fresh supply for us. If you are hungry and thirsty, come to Jesus and drink! Satisfy yourself in the sweetness of who He is.
Israel had become accustomed to the flesh pots of Egypt, but God's glory was leading them into the wilderness, into the sweetness of companionship. They had nothing there. Jehovah was to be their portion. As heaven born people, we are on our way to our birthplace and are to be sustained by food sent from there.
The Israelites had no idea what this bread from heaven would be like. The book of Exodus lets us know that they didn't know what to call it, so they called it "a whatness". Basically they said, "It's a whatchamakalit!" Moses explained that this "whatness" was the bread which the Lord has given them to eat. Expect God to do things or be something that you do not know!
The Jews were required to gather manna everyday, the 1st thing of the day. We also must make Christ our #1 pursuit. Be diligent in this one thing! Guard your heart, for it is so easily distracted. Love Him more than business, possessions, and relationships. Love HIM more than everything else!
With the manna also came the institution of the Sabbath. God wants us to rest in his provision. It was on the 6th day that they received a double portion in order for them to keep the Sabbath. I believe that God is releasing a double portion in this time to take us into an eternal rest, where we cease from our own works! Jesus said, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
However, the Israelites still needed an appetite change. Their idea of rest had been sitting by the flesh pots in Egypt and eating bread to the full. God's idea of rest was different. It was resting in His love and provision, eating heavenly bread.
Let's feed on Christ!