The Visible Manna and the Hidden Manna

The manna that God let rain down on Israel in the dispensation of the old covenant was an outward miracle, and it was for all of them. They received food for their bodies in this miraculous way. Ex. 16. He “rained down manna on them to eat . . .” it says in Psalm 78:24.

Just think that there is another kind of manna that is spiritual food, heavenly food that contains perfect multivitamins complement of vitamins! God also lets this manna rain down in a miraculous way so that it, in contrast to the first manna that was for all of them, reaches only a few, as it is written in Revelation 2:17: “To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat.”

There is therefore a hidden, spiritual food that is given in rich measure to each individual who lives an overcoming life, and to no one else. It is a sort of extra reward for wholeheartedness, faith, love, and faithfulness in all things. If others had received this strong food, it would have harmed them, as they would have become something in themselves and thereby would have received strength and boldness to say and do things that are not pleasing in God’s eyes.

This is precisely why this hidden manna is given only to those who overcome.

How wonderful and full of wisdom are God’s thoughts and ways!