“And the Lord said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that the waters may come again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen.”
Context:Exodus 14 describes the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. After Pharaoh had finally released the Israelites, he changed his mind and pursued them with his army. As the Israelites found themselves trapped between the sea and the Egyptian army, they were filled with fear. In this verse, God instructs Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea to cause the waters to return and engulf the Egyptians.
Key Points and Lessons:
- God’s Divine Intervention:Exodus 14:26 demonstrates God’s sovereign power over nature. He instructs Moses to stretch out his hand, and in response to Moses’ obedience, God causes the waters to return and drown the pursuing Egyptian army. This event showcases God’s ability to bring about miraculous interventions to protect and deliver His people. It reminds us that no obstacle or enemy is too great for God to overcome on our behalf.
- Obedience and Trust:Moses’ obedience to God’s command was crucial in this situation. Despite the overwhelming odds and the fear that must have filled his heart, Moses trusted in God’s instructions and stretched out his hand. This act of obedience played a significant role in the unfolding of God’s plan. It serves as a reminder for us to trust in God’s guidance even when facing seemingly impossible circumstances. When we obey God, He can work mightily on our behalf.
- God’s Protection and Deliverance:Exodus 14:26 reveals God’s commitment to protect and deliver His people. The Israelites were trapped and afraid, but God fought for them and rescued them from their oppressors. This event foreshadows the ultimate deliverance that God provides through Jesus Christ. Just as the Israelites were saved from physical bondage, believers today can find freedom from the bondage of sin through faith in Jesus. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is our ultimate protector and deliverer.
- God’s Justice:The drowning of the Egyptian army in the Red Sea displays God’s justice. Pharaoh and the Egyptians had enslaved and oppressed the Israelites for generations, and God executed judgment on them. It teaches us that God is just and will ultimately hold accountable those who perpetrate evil. While we may not always see immediate justice in our lives, we can trust that God is a righteous judge who will bring about justice in His perfect timing.
Application:
- Trust in God’s guidance and obey His instructions, even when faced with challenges or fears.
- Remember that God is sovereign over all circumstances and can bring about miraculous interventions on our behalf.
- Seek God’s protection and deliverance in times of trouble, knowing that He is our ultimate protector and deliverer.
- Understand that God is just and will ultimately bring justice to those who perpetrate evil.
In summary, Exodus 14:26 reminds us of God’s divine intervention, the importance of obedience and trust, God’s protection and deliverance, and His justice. It encourages us to trust in God’s guidance, rely on His power, and seek His deliverance in our lives.
