Eight Miles

Sometimes God gives us what we ask for before we need it in order to show us that we really didn't need what we asked for. We aren't always rejoicing; we must remember we are solders in a battle and as soldiers we must be ready for conflict. Problems are going to come in our lives. Exodus 15:22
So Moses brought Israel from the Red sea, and they went out into the wilderness of Shur; and they went three days in the wilderness, and found no water.

Exodus 15:23
And when they came to Marah, they could not drink of the waters of Marah, for they were bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah. Watch what happens!

Exodus 15:24
And the people murmured against Moses, saying, what shall we drink? What happened to the rejoicing? They let the burden of the day steal their joy so much so that they complained; how soon we forget the blessings of God. We must remember that Hypocrites may show high affections, and appear earnest in religious exercises, but in the time of temptation they fall away. Moses did what the people had neglected to do; he cried unto the Lord. And God provided graciously for them. They had to have water now they couldn't wait; little did they know that 8 miles up the road God had another blessing waiting them. God knows what we need and when we need it! At Elim there was a well for each tribe and a shade tree for each elder. What should we learn from this? No matter how bad we think things are now, it could be only 8 miles to Elim. Do we feel we are in Marah at times? Do you know how to get out of Marah? Go on, go on. We can't stop at Marah we must go on. Elim is going to come. Marah is bitter but Elim is just 8 miles down the road. Don't despair. Don't give up. Go on, because tomorrow when you turn a corner, you will behold a ray of sunlight you never knew was there. Had the Israelites only had patience and just trusted in the God who had just 3 days earlier delivered them from their enemy; my how soon we forget. Also I want you to think for a moment about this water being made sweet. There were at least 2 ½ million people plus their livestock and in a moment of time the water was made drinkable; sounds impossible doesn't it? No more than you and I asking the Lord to save us and immediately the Lord forgives us of all our sins past, present and future. The Lord teaches us to be patient and remember how you protected us in the past and what you did yesterday you are well able to do today. There is always plenty of good water even if it is 8 miles further up the road, just be patient God has not forgotten you.