The
Israelites were trapped. Soon after leaving slavery and Egypt behind, they
looked up and saw a distressing sight. A cloud of dust was moving their way,
and in that dust was a massive army. Pharaoh’s “disease” had returned—hardening
of the heart (Ex. 14:8). As a result, he sent his chariots after Moses and his
people.
Once the
Egyptian army caught up with the Israelites, all seemed lost. They were trapped
between a wall of soldiers and a sea of water. In panic, they cried out to both
Moses and God.
Both of
them responded with instructions. Moses said, “Stand still, and see the
salvation of the Lord. ” (14:13). And God told them, “Go forward” (v.15). While
that may seem to be contradictory advice, both commands were from God and
right. First, the people had to “stand still” or “firm” long enough to get
instructions from God. What if they had rushed headlong into the Red Sea
without consulting the Lord? But in standing still, they heard God’s
instructions, which included both what they were to do—move on, and what
Moses was to do—stretch out his hand over the sea in obedience and God
would part the waters.
Do circumstances have you trapped? Stand still. Take time to consult God and His Word. Then, using His instructions, move ahead and let God guide you.
