After Israel was freed from Egypt and witnessed many wonders, they faced a challenge and quickly doubted.
Despite seeing God’s power, their faith wavered at the first sign of trouble.
“Is not this the word that we did tell thee in Egypt, saying, Let us alone, that we may serve the Egyptians? For it had been better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the wilderness.” Exodus 14:12-13
Here, their faith in God was overshadowed by fear and circumstance.
Moses responded with three clear commands:
1. “Fear not”
2. “Stand still”
3. “See salvation”
“Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.” Exodus 14:13
This teaches us valuable lessons about facing difficulties.
First, we must not fear. Fear is a significant barrier to faith. When we lack faith, it’s often due to fear, not doubt. While doubt is a part of faith by definition, fear immobilizes us. The Israelites’ fear made them long for their past bondage.
Second, we must stand still. This is challenging, as our instinct might be to act hastily. However, stillness is where God does his greatest work. It was in stillness that Elisha witnessed God’s power, and in stillness, we often hear His gentle voice. Standing still, especially when we lack answers, allows God to reveal His strength, leading us to praise Him for His intervention.
Finally, we must see salvation. This step follows naturally from overcoming fear and embracing stillness. It’s reminiscent of the moment of salvation when, by calling on the Lord, we are delivered from fear and stand firm in His salvation. Israel experienced God’s deliverance as they ceased their fear and complaints, witnessing His mighty works.
After the children of Israel did these three things, God showed up and opened the water to safety.
This text reminds us to not let fear dominate, to embrace stillness, and to anticipate God’s deliverance, teaching us the essence of faith and reliance on God.
