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Book of Exodus - Chapter 16 - Verse 20

16:20
Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank: and Moses was wroth with them.

Meaning

The verse "Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank: and Moses was wroth with them" from the book of Exodus highlights the consequences of disobedience and lack of faith. In this context, the Israelites were instructed by Moses to only gather enough manna for one day, trusting that God would provide for them each day. However, some of them disobeyed and kept manna overnight, leading to it spoiling and becoming infested with worms. This act not only showed a lack of trust in God's provision but also a disregard for Moses' guidance. The anger of Moses in this verse represents the frustration and disappointment that comes when people refuse to follow God's instructions. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of obedience, trust, and gratitude in our relationship with God.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see the Israelites' disobedience and lack of faith towards Moses and God. The phrase "left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank" is a powerful illustration of the consequences of their actions. This can be interpreted theologically as a reminder of the importance of obedience and trust in God's provision. Just as the manna decayed when not consumed as commanded, so too do our blessings become corrupted when we fail to honor and follow God's instructions. The worms and foul odor symbolize the deterioration of their relationship with God due to their disobedience. Moses' anger towards the Israelites reflects God's righteous judgment on those who defy His will. This verse serves as a cautionary tale for believers, warning them of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of faithfulness in following God's commands.

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