How does God know our needs?
What does "each one according to his appetite" reveal about God's understanding of us?

Key Verse

“So they gathered it every morning, each one according to his appetite; and when the sun grew hot, it melted.” (Exodus 16:21)


God’s Perfect Knowledge of Individual Need

• He distinguishes us as individuals—no “one-size-fits-all” provision

Psalm 103:14: “For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.”

Matthew 6:32: “Your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.”


Tailored Provision, Not Indulgence

• The measure was “as much as he needed,” never less, never wastefully more

Philippians 4:19: “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

• God meets legitimate appetite while training hearts away from greed (Numbers 11:4, 33-34)


Daily Dependence

• Manna could not be hoarded (Exodus 16:19-20)

Matthew 6:11: “Give us this day our daily bread.”

• Trust is nurtured by returning to Him every morning for fresh supply


Equality in Compassion

• The strong who gathered much had “no excess,” the weak who gathered little had “no shortage” (Exodus 16:18)

2 Corinthians 8:13-15 echoes this principle for the church’s mutual care


Appetite Under God’s Authority

• Legitimate appetite is God-given (Psalm 145:15-16)

• Yet it must stay surrendered (1 Corinthians 10:31)

• He satisfies, but also disciplines when appetite rules the heart (Proverbs 23:1-3)


Encouragement for Today

• Bring every need—physical, emotional, spiritual—to the One who already understands it

• Receive what He sets before you with gratitude, trusting His wisdom in both portion and timing

• Let His consistent care free you from anxiety and cultivate generous concern for others

How does Exodus 16:16 teach us about God's provision for daily needs?
Top of Page
Top of Page