Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

July 16– Morning

 by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“They gathered manna every morning.” 

—Exodus 16:21

Work hard to have an awareness of your entire dependence upon the Lord’s good will and pleasure in everything you do. Never try to live on the old manna of yesterday’s provision, and definitely don’t look back to Egypt for your help. The provisions for each day must be freshly received from the hand of Jesus.

Today you may be on the mountaintop of spiritual closeness to God, but if God doesn’t keep you there by his grace, you’ll sink faster than you ever dreamed. Your mountain only stands firm when he settles it in its place. If he hides his face, you will soon be troubled. He is able to provide a window through which to see the light of Heaven, or he can darken it in an instant. He can withdraw the joy of your heart, the light of your eyes, and the strength of your life. In his hand your comforts lie, and at his will they can leave you.

God is determined that we feel our need of him each hour of every day. He only permits us to pray for “daily bread.” And this daily seeking of him is best for us as well. How good it is to retreat to his throne and constantly be reminded of his love. Oh! how rich is his grace that supplies us so continually and does not hold itself back because of our ingratitude!

O Lord Jesus, we bow at Your feet, conscious of our utter inability to do anything of spiritual significance without you. In everything that we receive, let us adore your blessed name and treasure your inexhaustible love. [M&E]