What led Israel after the waters of Marah were made sweet?
After the waters of Marah were made sweet, Moses led Israel by the cloud and pillar of fire, which represented the very presence of Jehovah going before them. This guidance brought them onward to an oasis with twelve wells and seventy palm trees, a place of rest and satisfaction.
Les teaches that after the bitter experience at Marah was made sweet, Moses again led the Israelites by virtue of the cloud and the pillar of fire, which is the very presence of Jehovah leading them on. He brought them to an oasis with twelve wells of water and seventy palm trees. Les admits he cannot fully explain what is involved in those numbers, but says it was a place where they could have water to drink, and it epitomized rest, relaxation, and the satisfaction of their thirst. Les also connects the tree cast into the waters to the work of the cross, teaching that when tribulations, disappointments, and sorrows come, we should race to the foot of the cross because that is where everything has been satisfied.
And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:
And they came to Elim, where were twelve wells of water, and threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped there by the waters.