Exodus 16:1–18
When the Israelites found themselves in the wilderness, their first instinct was to look back. “If only we had died by the hand of the Lord in Egypt. At least there we sat by the fleshpots and ate our fill of bread.” Scarcity spoke louder than memory, louder than hope.
But in the midst of their fear, God gave them manna: bread from heaven, new every morning. There was enough for everyone. Not too much, not too little. Just enough.
Scarcity thinking is deeply ingrained in us. We worry that we don’t have enough time, enough energy, enough money, enough skill. Yet God’s abundance is woven into our days in ways we often overlook. Gratitude is the practice that helps us notice.
This week, practice gratitude as a way of embracing God’s abundance.
- Evening Pause: Before bed, take a few minutes to reflect on your day.
- Name Three Moments: Write down three places where you experienced abundance. It could be a conversation, a meal, a glimpse of beauty, or simply breath in your lungs.
- Offer Thanks: Whisper a prayer of gratitude for each one.
At the end of the week, look back over your list. You may be surprised at how God’s provision has been quietly present all along.
Carry this prayer with you as you take note of God’s abundance in your lives.
Generous God, you feed us with more than bread. Open our eyes to the abundance all around us. Turn our grumbling into gratitude, and our fear into trust. Give us hearts that rest in your provision, day by day, moment by moment. AMEN
