Deuteronomy 8

2 Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out whether or not you would obey his commands. 3 Yes, he humbled you by letting you go hungry and then feeding you with manna, a food previously unknown to you and your ancestors. He did it to teach you that people do not live by bread alone; rather, we live by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. 4 For all these forty years your clothes didn’t wear out, and your feet didn’t blister or swell. 5 Think about it: Just as a parent disciplines a child, the Lord your God disciplines you for your own good.

While the Israelites wandering in the desert was a punishment for their lack of faith in God, it also served as an amazing example of God’s supernatural provision and care. He did not leave His people; He continued to dwell with them and miraculously provided for them. He fed them, protected them, and ensured their clothes and bodies would not be worn out by 40 years in the harsh desert conditions. Despite their rebellion, God was faithful!

• When was the last time you went through a season of pain and suffering? Perhaps you’re in the middle of one right now?
• What are the ways God has cared for you in the midst of the desert?
• How did He supernaturally provide for you in the midst of the pain?
• Did you see the miracles He performed on your behalf?

Heavenly Father, thank you for your faithfulness to me. Thank you for choosing to be with me and for miraculously providing for me in the middle of the desert. Help me to see your gracious work on my behalf and inspire me to continue to give you praise even in times of pain and suffering. Amen