Don’t Ascend More Than Your Ability:
Sefer Ohr LaShamayim writes that the Torah is teaching us that if one wishes to follow the ways of Hashem Yisborach, he should not attempt to rapidly do more than he is capable of. Rather, one should take one step at a time, doing whatever Hashem grants him the ability to do.
He thus explains the pasuk as follows: “You shall continue to give teven (straw) to the nation.” The word “teven” can mean “tevunah”, understanding. Thus, these words mean that one shouldn’t try to understand things that are beyond him.
“Lilvon leveinim (to make bricks).” The word “lilvon” can mean “to make white” or “to purify”. Thus, these words mean that even if one’s intentions are to purify himself, he still should not try to do more than his capability.
“Like yesterday and the day before let them go.” This means that one should continue to gradually improve every day, doing only as much as he is able to do.
