But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Exodus 14:13-14 (NLT)
I was reminded of this passage again today listening to Mark Batterson share a story of feeling trapped in a Red Sea moment. He went on to say that he had no idea what he was going to do at the time, but he knew what he WASN’T going to do; panic.
I am winding down on the sale of our home. We are less than a week away from escrow closing and if you read some of my first posts you see that there were moments that I panicked and needed to be reminded that God was leading me through this entire journey of faith. I in fact spoke a message to our church during that time when I referenced this passage from Exodus, so to be reminded of it today is so cool. (Listen to the message, Fear of Risk, in my sermon section)
This week I was praying to God that I might not forget how I saw Him at work in this journey. I don’t want to interpret this “win” experience in any way that gives me or any other man credit. It was clearly God leading and I shamefully did not always exhibit the trust I would have liked to. It’s easy to see the struggles and pains of life as learning experiences. But often the wins are forgotten beyond the celebration. But the win was not easy and matter of fact. There was a lot of struggle and fear and doubt and twists and turns. And because it was not in any way accomplished out of my wits and abilities, I have many lessons that I need to keep in my view for a long time to come.
I don’t think that Moses’ statement to the Israelites is a direct promise for us today. It was for a specific time and deliverance. But the principle of standing firm, not fearing, and trusting God are behaviors that we can count on and should strive to live out at all times. And when we do see the deliverance of the Lord, we should be sure to give Him the honor that is due Him.
If you find yourself in a Red Sea moment and have no idea what you’re going to, at least be confident of what you won’t; panic! God is trustworthy and able. And if the deliverance doesn’t come in your preferred time or way, know that God still knows what He is doing and really does know what you need. What you need is always better than what you want.