Exodus 16:16 This is what the LORD has commanded: ‘Gather as much (manna) as each of you needs, an omer to a person according to the number of persons, all providing for those in their own tents.’ ” 17 The Israelites did so, some gathering more, some less. 18 But when they measured it with an omer, those who gathered much had nothing over, and those who gathered little had no shortage; they gathered as much as each of them needed. 19 And Moses said to them, “Let no one leave any of it over until morning.” 20 But they did not listen to Moses; some left part of it until morning, and it bred worms and became foul. And Moses was angry with them. 21 Morning by morning they gathered it, as much as each needed; but when the sun grew hot, it melted. 

There was little food or water in the desert so God had to provide for the people. In this chapter read about God making manna (bread from heaven) for the people each day so they could eat. What was absolutely clear to everyone in this equation was that God was the provider. The people could take no credit for their provision.

They could trust God to provide what was needed. One day at a time. 

Of course, God’s people would rather not trust God one day at a time. As I write this blog post, trading on has been halted temporarily on the NYSE because of the huge drop in the market at the opening. When you have retirement savings invested in the stock market, as do the vast majority of Americans, it’s easy to feel a sense of panic. Even if retirement is years away, it’s hard to not to worry.

And so this morning I’m reminded who is my provider. The stock market is not my provider. Heavenly Father, you are my provider and I can trust you. Give me grace to be at peace in the midst of fear and turmoil. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.