Exodus 17:1-7  The Lord moved the people of Israel to a place called "Rephidim".  He stopped them there.. in the desert.. where there was no water.   But, instead of believing and trusting the Lord to provide.. they grumble and complained and threatened Moses... like he could do anything about it!

What they did not do.. was ask the Lord.. who was giving them bread to eat.. to also give them water to drink.  Moses was the only one who "cried out to the Lord."  So, Moses was told to go ahead of the people and take his staff and some elders to the rock at Horeb. He was told to "strike the rock" and that the Lord would bring water out of that rock. And... so he did. 

Now, we know that the people really did need that water. God knew it too.  We know that normally water would not come from a rock.  We know there was no way for Moses to know that it would work either.  But, he trusted and obeyed.  Water came.. abundantly poured out for all the people and all their animals.  That's how God works... even when we don't deserve it.  His grace flows out through the Rock.. through the life of our Savior, Christ Jesus.

It's easy to forget the blessings that God has already given to us.. we begin to take them for granted and are no longer thankful.. because a new problem has risen up to take our attention.  O.. may we not forget!  May we learn to trust and obey like Moses did! 

Father in heaven, forgive my worry.. my grumbling and complaining.. for I truly am thankful for the grace that You have shown to me through all of my life!  I have had the privilege of growing up in a family that went to church.. with people who prayed for me and led me to Jesus.  Thank You.  You have made a way for me through many situations where I could not have found a way out.. except by Your loving Hand. Thank You.  You have a plan for my life.. even now.. that I can rest in.. knowing that You will accomplish Your good and perfect will. Thank You! My hope is in the Rock that is Jesus Christ.. from whom all blessings flow.. like water in the desert! Thank You. I love You, Lord. Be glorified in all the earth this day I pray. Amen.