Exodus 17

Water from the Rock (v.1–7):

The people camp at Rephidim, but there is no water.

The Israelites quarrel with Moses and question whether God is really among them.

Moses prays, and God instructs him to strike a specific rock at Horeb with his staff.

Water miraculously flows from the rock, and the place is named Massah (“testing”) and Meribah (“quarreling”), because of the people’s unbelief.

Victory Over Amalek (v.8–16):

The Amalekites attack Israel at Rephidim.

Moses commands Joshua to lead the army, while he goes to a hilltop with the staff of God.

As long as Moses holds up his hands, Israel prevails; when he lowers them, Amalek gains ground.

Aaron and Hur support Moses’ arms, and Israel wins the battle.

Moses builds an altar and names it Yahweh-Nissi (“The Lord is My Banner”) to commemorate God’s victory.

God declares He will completely blot out Amalek, showing His judgment against them.

Key Themes:
God Provides in Impossible Situations:

Water from the rock is a symbol of life-giving provision, even in barren places.

In the New Testament, Paul identifies the rock as a symbol of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:4).

God Responds to Prayer and Faith:

Moses cries out to God under pressure, modeling how to turn complaints into prayerful dependence.

Spiritual and Physical Support Matters:

Moses' raised hands represent intercession and dependence on God.

Aaron and Hur show that leadership needs support—victory comes through community and teamwork.

God is Our Banner in Battle:

"Yahweh-Nissi" reminds us that God fights for His people.

Victory belongs to God, and we must trust His strength, not our own.

Application Points:
When you're spiritually dry, look to God as your source—He brings refreshment even from unlikely places.

Bring your complaints to God in prayer, not blame.

Recognize the value of spiritual leaders and supporters—we all need help in the battle.

Remember that God is your banner—let His name, not your strength, lead you.

Keep faith strong through obedience, prayer, and community.