Exodus 15:21

“And Miriam answered them, Sing ye to the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.”

Historical Context: Exodus 15:21 is part of the song of triumph sung by Moses and the Israelites after they crossed the Red Sea and witnessed the destruction of Pharaoh’s army. The song is known as the Song of Moses or the Song of Miriam.

Miriam’s Response: Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron, took a timbrel (or tambourine) in her hand, and along with the women, she responded to the men’s declaration of praise by leading them in a song of victory. Miriam’s response highlights the significance of this event and the recognition of God’s deliverance.

Singing to the LORD: Miriam encourages the people to sing to the LORD. Singing and praising God in response to His mighty acts has been a common practice throughout the Bible. Singing serves as a means of expressing gratitude, joy, and worship.

God’s Glorious Triumph: Miriam proclaims that God has triumphed gloriously. This statement acknowledges the power and sovereignty of God. It recognizes that the victory they experienced was not due to their own strength but because of God’s intervention.

The Defeat of Pharaoh’s Army: Miriam affirms that God has thrown the horse and rider into the sea. This is a reference to the destruction of Pharaoh’s army, which pursued the Israelites into the parted waters of the Red Sea. God miraculously caused the sea to close in on the Egyptian soldiers, leading to their defeat.

Lessons and Application:

• Recognizing God’s deliverance: Miriam’s response teaches us the importance of recognizing and acknowledging God’s deliverance in our lives. It reminds us that our victories and triumphs are ultimately from the Lord.
• Gratitude and worship: Singing and praising God are essential components of expressing our gratitude and worship to Him. It is a way to celebrate His goodness and faithfulness.
• Trusting in God’s power: The defeat of Pharaoh’s army reminds us of God’s mighty power and His ability to overcome seemingly impossible situations. It encourages us to trust in Him, even in the face of adversity.

Overall, Exodus 15:21 and Miriam’s response highlight the celebration of God’s triumph and deliverance. It serves as a reminder for us to express our gratitude, worship, and trust in God’s power and faithfulness.