Some have wondered – why God did not better supply the children of Israel as they journeyed towards the promised land.  At times, they went without adequate water (Exodus 17:3; Numbers 20:2).  At times, they hungered (Exodus 16:3; Deuteronomy 8:3).  Now, it is true that God miraculously was with them (Deuteronomy 8:4; 29:5; Nehemiah 9:21).  But, why would God put them through such hardship?  Didn’t He know what they needed?

The “why” of God’s allowance of this is found in Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 16.  God was testing them.  He wanted them to humbly submit unto Him.  Some did.   Many others grumbled, murmured, and disrespectfully and rebelliously complained every step of the way.  Others even sought to return unto Egypt (Numbers 14:4; Nehemiah 9:17; Acts 7:39).   They should have humbly and respectfully prayed to Him when in need. God was testing and proving the character and faith of each man and woman.  He was revealing what was in the heart.  Understand, if these tests were properly received they matured and perfected those tested (Deuteronomy 8:3, 16).

Application

When we experience hardships in life remember that such may well be a test.  God is separating the wheat from the chaff.  He is revealing the heart.  Don’t let the testing of life derail you and keep you out of the promised land.  Trust in Him.  Don’t give up.  “In due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9).