"And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided."
Context:The book of Exodus recounts the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. After experiencing various plagues, the Pharaoh finally allowed the Israelites to leave. However, he later changed his mind and pursued them with his army. As the Israelites found themselves trapped between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army, God performed a miraculous deliverance by dividing the sea.
Divine Intervention:In this verse, we witness the intervention of God through Moses. As Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, the Lord caused a strong east wind to blow all night. This wind became the instrument through which God accomplished a miraculous act of parting the waters and making the sea dry land. The text highlights that it was not a natural phenomenon but a supernatural event orchestrated by God.
God’s Power and Authority:This verse showcases God’s power and authority over creation. By His command, the wind blew and the waters obeyed. The sea, which seemed like an insurmountable obstacle, was divided, providing a way of escape for the Israelites. This demonstrates that God has control over nature and can use it to fulfill His purposes.
Deliverance and Salvation:The parting of the Red Sea was a pivotal moment in the Israelites’ journey to freedom. It symbolizes God’s deliverance and salvation. The Israelites were trapped with no apparent way forward, but God made a way where there seemed to be no way. The dry ground in the midst of the sea allowed the Israelites to pass through safely, escaping the pursuing Egyptian army. This event serves as a powerful reminder that God is the ultimate deliverer who can rescue His people from seemingly impossible situations.
Faith and Obedience:Moses played a significant role in this miraculous event by obeying God’s instructions. He stretched out his hand over the sea, trusting in God’s power to act. This demonstrates the importance of faith and obedience in experiencing God’s miraculous interventions. Moses’ faith and willingness to act according to God’s command were key factors in the unfolding of this extraordinary event.
Application:
- Trusting God’s Power:Like Moses and the Israelites, we can trust in God’s power to provide solutions to our seemingly impossible circumstances. When we encounter challenges, we should remember that God is capable of parting our “seas” and making a way for us.
- Obedience and Faith:This passage reminds us of the significance of obedience and faith in our relationship with God. As we listen to God’s instructions through His Word and the prompting of the Holy Spirit, we should respond in obedience, even when it seems challenging or illogical.
- God’s Deliverance:Reflect on times when God has delivered you from difficult situations. Remember that God’s deliverance in the past serves as a reminder of His faithfulness and gives us confidence to trust Him in the present and future.
Exodus 14:21 is a powerful testament to God’s sovereignty, power, and deliverance. It encourages us to trust in His ability to make a way when we face seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
