Now when they came to Marah, they could not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter. Therefore the name of it was called Marah. And the people complained against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” (Exodus 15:23-24 NKJV)

Has life’s journey brought you to a place that is just awful? It happens from time to time. In Exodus 15:22-27, Moses and the children of Israel have traveled for three days without water. They found water, but it was bitter. Like typical Israelites, they complained to Moses. I must admit if I traveled that far without water, I’d be complaining right alongside them.

What short memories they have! Three days earlier, God had parted the Red Sea and allowed them to escape the Egyptians who wanted to take them back to Egypt as their slaves or possibly kill them.

Moses cried out to God and He showed Moses a tree. When Moses cast this tree into the waters, they became sweet (Ex. 15:25). We love stories with answered prayers.

God had tested them, and they failed (Ex. 15:26). I don’t know about you, friend, but I have failed too. I bitterly complained during my season of pain and recovery. I still have days when I complain about my neuropathy or hip pain. Perhaps we don’t do well on tests, but there’s more to this story.

Just down the road was Elim.

Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve wells of water and seventy palm trees; so they camped there by the waters. (Ex. 15:27 NKJV)

Elim had twelve wells full of water. This was definitely an oasis in the wilderness for the Israelites.

Better is around the bend from bitter.

Like the Israelites, we put lots of energy into fussing about what is wrong, but just down the road is something much better. We just have to get there.

Whatever you are going through today, know there’s something better ahead. I hope for you that is within the next hour. Take some time to read this story in your Bible and allow it to lift your spirits.

Lord Jesus, You were crucified on a tree. You have made life sweet for me, like the tree made the waters of Mara sweet. Thank You for sweetening the Maras in our lives. Help us get to Elim soon. Forgive us for complaining, and help us be grateful for Your sacrifice, love and care. Amen.