“I will rain down bread from heaven for you. The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day” (Exodus 16:4). “Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life’ ” (John 6:35).
I recently read the book, Depression: Looking Up from the Stubborn Darkness by Edward Welch. Among other things, the author suggested getting in to a “manna rhythm” of daily living. That means several things to me.
The Old Testaments relates how God provided manna for the Israelites in the wilderness, giving only enough for that day except on the day before the Sabbath, thus teaching them to rely on Him daily. Tomorrow’s provisions were not given today.
As I deal with depression and other problems, living in a manna rhythm is just that–trusting God for today’s provisions and not worrying or wondering about future days. As I go through each day, God’s manna will provide what I need to make it through, whether it’s the ability to enjoy activities of this life, strength to carry out responsibilities or ministries, or perseverance to endure pain or suffering. Whatever the circumstances, God’s manna will meet my needs.
This manna is not only provided through circumstances however, but also in the person of Christ Himself. Jesus says that He is my heavenly bread of life.
Living my life in a manna rhythm means spending time with Christ–communicating with him in prayer, listening to Him speak through the Scripture, and praying for faith to act on His power within me. I am blessed with the wonderful provision of the person of Christ as well as whatever I need to go through each day (2 Peter 1:3,4).
I am quite ready for my breakfast each morning. But as I begin my day with earthly food, I want to begin it with my heavenly food as well–time with Jesus and a declaration in faith that I have all I need for today, whatever it may bring, and walking in that faith until tomorrow’s manna is given.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to live each day in a manna rhythm, knowing You can and will meet my every need. Amen.
About the author:
Bronlynn Spindler lives in VA and is blessed to have the support and encouragement of a wonderful husband and three grown daughters. God’s grace and strength have brought her through thyroid cancer and continue to sustain her through ongoing back pain, depression, headaches, multiple sensitivities, and fibromyalgia. You may view her blog of devotionals at www.aplaceofsprings57.blogspot.com.
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What have you do to live one day at a time with your illness? What do you do or tell yourself to stay in that one-day mindset?
Bronlynn, the manna is a perfect illustration of living life “in day-tight compartments”. I’m more and more convinced that this is THE way to live, really for everyone.
However, it’s not easy to put into practice. We are responsible to plan ahead but the Lord has told us many times in His Word NOT to worry.
The first time I found myself more consistent living in the present was when my elderly mother-in-law came to live with us for a couple of years. It was a privilege to care for her but quite a difficult transition. I think I actually made the choice to live a day at a time, because I knew I’d have to depend on Him to help me through. And I just knew that living in the present would facilitate this. He was so good to make that very clear to me. The very few times I got really discouraged, I was worrying about the future, wondering how long I could do this.
Thanks my friend,
Beth
Thanks Bronlynn,
I LOVE that phrase “manna rhythm”!! I will spend some time reflecting on what that means for me. Thanks! Great article & so true.
In a similar vein, this past week I’ve been reminding myself of the saying: “I don’t believe in miracles…..I rely on them!” It was on a fridge magnet we received during a tough time many years ago. (Even looked it up online & discovered you can buy T-shirts with that printed on it & am contemplating getting one.) Daily manna was a daily miracle, like you say, & they relied on it…. helping them to rely on the Lord in every little thing……always easier said than done for me! Am getting there!
Agree with what you & Beth have said….great & timely reminders…..thanks. Lotsoluv Kerryn
Beth and Kerryn,
You each had sayings I really like – Beth’s “day-tight compartments” and Kerryn’s “relying on miracles”. I remember those – or try to
Thanks for sharing.
Blessings,
Bronlynn
Love these thoughts, Bronlynn. I am a compulsive planner, and it is so difficult for me to just “Let go and let God …”. But isn’t “manna rhythm” just a much better way to live life!
That’s the best route, I think, toward being “anxious for nothing” and finding the “peace that passes all understanding”.
Thanks, Bronlynn!
Blessings,
Laurel