Exodus 16:24

So they set it aside until morning as Moses had commanded, and it did not smell or contain any maggots.

Study Bible

So they set it aside
The Hebrew root for "set aside" is "yanach," which means to rest or leave something in a place. This action signifies obedience and trust in God's provision. The Israelites were learning to rely on God's instructions through Moses, which is a recurring theme in their wilderness journey. This act of setting aside the manna is a physical manifestation of their faith and submission to divine guidance.

until morning
The phrase "until morning" indicates a specific time frame that God had ordained for the preservation of the manna. In the broader biblical context, morning often symbolizes new beginnings and God's renewed mercies (Lamentations 3:22-23). Here, it underscores the daily dependence on God for sustenance and the fresh provision He offers each day.

as Moses had commanded
Moses, as the leader and prophet, was the intermediary between God and the Israelites. His commands were not his own but were divinely inspired. This phrase emphasizes the importance of following God-appointed leadership and the blessings that come from obedience to God's word as delivered through His chosen servants.

and it did not smell
The absence of a foul smell is significant because it contrasts with the previous experience when the Israelites disobeyed and kept manna overnight, resulting in a stench (Exodus 16:20). This miraculous preservation is a testament to God's power and faithfulness. It serves as a reminder that when God commands something, He also provides the means for its fulfillment without the corruption that comes from human interference.

or contain any maggots
The Hebrew word for "maggots" is "rimmah," which refers to worms or decay. The lack of maggots signifies purity and divine intervention. In a broader theological sense, it points to the incorruptible nature of God's provision. Just as the manna was preserved, so too are the promises of God, which remain untainted and reliable. This preservation is a foreshadowing of the incorruptible nature of Christ, the true Bread from Heaven, who offers eternal life without decay.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt. He is the one who relays God's commands to the Israelites regarding the collection and preservation of manna.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and are now journeying through the wilderness. They are learning to trust in God's provision.

3. Manna
The miraculous food provided by God to the Israelites in the wilderness. It symbolizes God's provision and care for His people.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites are traveling after their exodus from Egypt. It is a place of testing and reliance on God.

5. God's Command
The directive given through Moses to collect manna daily, with specific instructions for the Sabbath, teaching reliance on God's provision.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Provision
Just as the Israelites had to trust God for their daily manna, we are called to trust God for our daily needs. This trust is built through obedience and faith in His promises.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in setting aside the manna as instructed resulted in a miracle. Our obedience to God's Word can lead to blessings and spiritual growth.

Sabbath Rest and Provision
The preservation of manna for the Sabbath highlights the importance of rest and reliance on God. We are reminded to honor the Sabbath and trust God to provide for us even when we rest.

God's Faithfulness
The consistent provision of manna demonstrates God's faithfulness. Reflect on how God has been faithful in your life and how you can respond with gratitude and trust.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the preservation of manna for the Sabbath illustrate God's care for His people? Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in a similar way.

2. In what ways can we practice trusting God for our "daily bread" in today's world? Consider practical steps you can take to rely more on God's provision.

3. How does the concept of Sabbath rest apply to your life? What changes can you make to ensure you are honoring this principle?

4. Compare the manna in the wilderness to Jesus as the "bread of life." How does this comparison deepen your understanding of Jesus' role in your spiritual life?

5. Reflect on a time when obedience to God's commands led to unexpected blessings. How can this encourage you to continue walking in obedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 16:19-20
These verses provide context for the miracle of the manna not spoiling when kept overnight for the Sabbath, contrasting with the usual spoilage when kept overnight on other days.

Matthew 6:11
Jesus teaches His disciples to pray for "daily bread," echoing the daily provision of manna and emphasizing reliance on God for daily needs.

John 6:31-35
Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life," drawing a parallel between the manna in the wilderness and His provision of spiritual sustenance.