Old Testament
Exodus 16:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Moses continued, "The LORD will give you meat to eat this evening and all the bread you want in the morning, because he has heard how you've been complaining against him. Who are we? Your complaints aren't really against us — they're against the LORD."
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And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.
What Exodus 16:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Moses reassures the people that God will provide for their needs. He tells them that they will receive meat in the evening and bread in the morning. This promise comes because God has heard their complaints. Moses emphasizes that their grievances are not directed at him or his leadership, but rather at God himself. This highlights the importance of recognizing where our frustrations truly lie. When we complain, we often forget that we are questioning the very source of our provision. Moses reminds the people of their relationship with God and encourages them to trust in His care. This moment serves as a reminder that God is attentive to our needs and feelings, even when we express them in frustration. It’s a call to reflect on our attitudes and to understand the impact of our words on our relationship with God and others. Trusting in God’s provision can transform our complaints into gratitude and reliance on His goodness and faithfulness in our lives.
How to apply Exodus 16:8 to your life
When you feel frustrated or complain about your circumstances, take a moment to reflect on your relationship with God. Remember that He hears your concerns and is aware of your needs. Instead of focusing on what you lack, shift your perspective to gratitude for what you have and trust in His provision for the future. This can change your outlook significantly and deepen your faith in Him. Be mindful of how you express your feelings.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Manna and Quail (Exodus 16:1–36)
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Moses
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Exodus 16:8
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 16:8 mean?
Exodus 16:8 means that God will provide food for the Israelites, specifically meat in the evening and bread in the morning, in response to their complaints. Moses emphasizes that their complaints are directed at God, not at him.
What is the significance of complaints in Exodus 16:8?
In Exodus 16:8, complaints highlight the Israelites' lack of trust in God's provision. Moses points out that their grievances are ultimately against God, reminding them to recognize His role in their sustenance.
What does Moses say about the people's complaints in Exodus 16:8?
Moses states that the people's complaints are not against him or his leadership but against the Lord. This underscores the importance of understanding who they are truly questioning when they express dissatisfaction.
How does Exodus 16:8 relate to God's provision?
Exodus 16:8 illustrates God's commitment to providing for His people, even when they express frustration. It reassures believers that God hears their needs and will respond appropriately.
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