Then all the congregation of the sons of Israel journeyed by stages from the wilderness of Sin, according to the command of the Lord, and camped at Rephidim, and there was no water for the people to drink. Exodus 17:1 NASB
A place of rest is not necessarily a place of peace. Anyone who lives with major regrets can attest that simply exiting the wilderness of sin does not bring peace. The washing of the water of God’s Word is the life-giving source. Jesus said the water that He gives us (the Word) will be a spring of water welling up to eternal life (John 4:14).
We see a physical example of this spiritual truth in Exodus 17. The people of God journeyed from the wilderness of Sin because they were following the Holy Spirit in the cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. They camped at Rephidim which translates “place of rest.”
However, there was no water in this place of rest. The people of God were desperately thirsty. Instead of praying for water, they were tempted and contentious (v. 7). God says they tested Him by asking, “Is the LORD among us or not?” Before we judge those Israelites too harshly, let us pause and reflect. How many times have we been desperate and asked, “Where are You, Lord?”
When we are choked with shame, dry from grief, or desperate for change, we need water. The cool, refreshing water of the Word of God is the only thing that can satisfy. A place of rest, without water, only tempts us to complain and argue with God. Yet a single word from the Lord will carry us through the most difficult of seasons. His word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path (Ps. 119:105).
God’s Word guides and directs, giving us peace in every desert place. In addition, He makes us a fountain of water, offering His refreshment and peace to those around us. Jesus said out of our hearts will flow rivers of living water (John 7:38). You and I have life-giving water in our hearts. Let’s share a word today.
Heavenly Father, I pray that I remember this lesson when I feel parched and faint. I pray that I come to Your place of rest and cry out for water. Lord, satisfy my thirst for You and make me a blessing. Amen.