In the sacred text of Exodus 14:13-14, we find a gripping narrative of the Israelites' journey to freedom, guided by the mighty hand of God and the leadership of Moses. They witnessed divine interventions against the Egyptians, experiencing firsthand the power of their all-mighty God.
Much like the Israelites, we too, embark on our own journeys, often uncertain of the path ahead. We know God has a plan, but the details remain shrouded in mystery. Our faith, at times, falters, giving way to doubt, fear, and complaints.
In reflection, I find my own story woven into theirs. How often have I extended my journey through lack of trust, succumbing to fear and insecurity? How many opportunities have I missed due to doubt? The parallels are undeniable, and perhaps you can relate.
God, in His infinite patience, leads us through our metaphorical wilderness, urging us to stay close and press forward. He sustains us wisely, withholding the banquet to prevent complacency. The lessons of the wilderness are hard-earned, shaping us for the battles we inevitably face.
Our ultimate rescue story unfolds in the blood-bought sacrifice of Jesus, God's Son, on the cross. The resurrection becomes our path to freedom, a testament to His enduring love. Yet, despite this knowledge, we stumble and grumble, straying from His guidance.
Trials emerge as battles, designed to strengthen our faith. In Exodus 14:13, we're instructed to "stand still and watch (Him) rescue (us)." Oh, that we would let Him! Trials will come, but we must allow them to train us, following Jesus through the wilderness, seeking His guidance.
In the face of our "Egyptians" — be it cancer, debt, addiction, and so forth — we're encouraged to trust the Savior and let Him fight for us. To stand still, lean on Him, be patient and calm and let him fight for us. He sacrificed His life for us; we can trust Him with everything.
Let today be the last day we circle our mountains. Decide to fully follow and trust God to fight for you. As instructed in Exodus 14:15, "get moving!" Move forward with faith, for He has a plan, and His promises are steadfast.
Action Items:
- Reflect on the "wilderness" moments in your life where trust wavered. Seek growth through those experiences.
- Identify your personal "Egyptians" and commit to trusting God to fight for you.
- Embrace trials as opportunities for faith-strengthening. Choose to follow Jesus through the wilderness. Find a promise to stand on.
- Make a conscious decision to stop circling the same mountains. Trust God to lead you forward, and heed His call to "get moving!"
My personal Exodus story with cancer...
At the age of 45, I confronted the challenges of breast cancer, finding solace in Exodus 14:13-14 as a daily promise. With heartfelt cries, I declared, "Lord, I stand on Your word. You'll rescue me; this cancer I face today, I'll never face again." This divine assurance has become an integral part of my story, etched on my heart and worn on cherished jewelry. In every subsequent battle, it serves as a beacon, reminding me of His unwavering faithfulness. Through my journey with cancer treatment and medical care, His word strengthened my faith and brought me peace. I clung to this Word! While not every challenge was met with steadfast faith, I can testify that those moments of unwavering trust changed me forever. They also prompted me “get moving” by helping others who were fighting cancer, in ways I never imagined.
May we all “run with endurance” on the solid ground of His Word as we make our way though the wilderness of life. May we learn to stand on His truth while He rescues us, strengthens us and then leads us forward.
God bless you all!
Exodus 14:13-15...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. Then the LORD said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! (NLT)
Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. (NLT)
