Will You Pass the Test? (Exod 16:1-21)
Speaker: Pr Joshua Yong
Date: 27 Nov 2022

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Sermon notes taken by:

Dn Benjamin Yeo


Do you remember all the tests that you have taken in school as a child? Adults also go through tests of responsibility at our work places. Tests are part and parcel of our lives. Do you like to be tested?

There are good reasons for tests. Until our faith is put to the test, we will not know the condition of our faith. Tests will expose our true spiritual condition. The children of Israel went through such tests in Exodus chapter 16.

First Test: Test in times of need

After leaving Elim, the children of Israel focused on their hunger and complained to Moses and Aaron. Looking back to Egypt, they said they would rather die as slaves in Egypt with their stomachs full than be free men with empty stomachs. Can we trust the Lord to provide for us in times of need?

Second Test: Test in times of plenty

God gave the children of Israel instructions regarding the collection of manna and quails to test them. They saw the food God provided, but failed to see God’s providence. Moses tried to get them to see God’s goodness, but they were short-sighted. Their attention was on the manna and quails instead of the glory of God. In times of plenty, we must remember that it is the Lord who provides for us, and we must draw near to God.

Third Test: Test of diligence and faithfulness

The children of Israel had to work to gather the manna from the ground. Thus, God provided for those who were diligent and faithful with sufficient manna. Although God can provide for us, we must not be lazy, but be diligent and faithful. The work which God wants us to is good for us.

God puts us through different tests to draw us closer to him. Let us be diligent and faithful in the work God has given to us. Do not focus on the circumstances but look to God both in times of need and in times of plenty.

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