Old Testament
Exodus 16:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we see a clear lesson about trust and obedience.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
But some of them didn't listen to Moses and saved part of it overnight. By morning it was crawling with worms and smelled terrible. Moses was angry with them.
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.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a clear lesson about trust and obedience. God provided the Israelites with manna, a special food, each day. However, some people decided to save some for the next day, ignoring Moses' instructions. When they woke up, the leftover food was spoiled, filled with worms, and had a terrible smell. This made Moses very angry because it showed a lack of faith in God's daily provision. The Israelites were meant to rely on God for their needs, trusting that He would provide fresh manna each day. Their actions demonstrated doubt and disobedience, which led to negative consequences. This story reminds us that following guidance and trusting in what we are given is essential for our well-being and peace of mind. It encourages us to live in the moment and not hoard what we think we need for the future, as God knows our needs better than we do and will provide for us in His timing and way. Trusting Him is key to a fulfilling life, free from unnecessary worry.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 16:20 to your life
We can learn to trust that our needs will be met each day. Instead of worrying about the future, focus on what you have now and be grateful. Practice living in the moment and relying on God for your daily needs. This can lead to a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Trusting God helps us avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety over what lies ahead. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.” “Live one day
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 16:20 mean?
Exodus 16:20 illustrates the consequences of disobedience and lack of trust in God's provision. The Israelites were instructed to gather only enough manna for each day, but some chose to save it, resulting in spoiled food filled with worms.
What is the significance of the worms in Exodus 16:20?
The worms in Exodus 16:20 symbolize the consequences of not following God's instructions. By saving the manna, the Israelites demonstrated a lack of faith in God's daily provision, leading to their food spoiling and causing Moses' anger.
What lesson can we learn from Exodus 16:20?
Exodus 16:20 teaches us the importance of trusting God for our daily needs and following His guidance. It encourages us to live in the moment and rely on God's provision rather than hoarding resources out of fear.
Why was Moses angry in Exodus 16:20?
Moses was angry in Exodus 16:20 because some Israelites disobeyed God's command by saving manna overnight. Their actions showed a lack of faith and trust in God's provision, which frustrated Moses as their leader.
The Book of Exodus
Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt
The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.
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