The Chariots of Egypt and the Red Sea

Exodus 14 :15

New International Version (NIV)

Tell the Israelites to move on.

For Meditation

Israel did not expect any challenge from Egypt on the way to Canaan, at least not from the Egyptians. When men realize their loss after making a deal, they try to walk it back. So Pharaoh and his six hundred best chariots went after the Israelites. They caught up with Israel with the Red Sea before them and hills flanking them on both sides. Where does Israel go? What do they do to flee from the approaching carnage?

Sometimes, that is how life deals with us. You woke up this morning cheerful and looking forward to a great week. Last week, the Lord dealt with those knotty issues that had bedeviled you for the longest time. Rest was good over the weekend, and you feel refreshed for the new week. Where, then, is this giant army from? Why this opposition again? You thought you had overcome the problem, but now, it has opened up in a terrifying way. What do you do? You are second-guessing yourself.

Israel second-guessed Moses and complained against him (Exodus 14:11-12). They soon forgot the mighty acts of Yahweh that delivered them. Did He even come to their minds when they realized their predicament? Moses was the man they knew and saw, so they lashed out at him. But what did they know?

They had come into that situation by the act of God—that He will gain glory for Himself through Pharaoh and all his army when they realize He is the LORD and there is none other (Exodus 14:1-4).

At His command, the sea opened before His people. God created a highway through the Red Sea and led Israel to safety while He drowned Pharaoh and his best charioteers (29-31).

Egypt may come after you this week in a sneak attack or a blatant conspiracy against what you have fought to build by the grace of God. Just remember this and stay calm. The God who took you through those difficult situations last week is the same God who has led you into this week. He has a purpose for whatever will rise against you—to gain glory before your enemies. When He delivers the final blow, you will know the faithfulness of His word to Israel at the Red Sea:

“Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still” (13-14).

That’s your marching order from your Lord for the week. He is your Captain before whom death fled on the third day after Calvary. He’s your mighty Warrior and conquering King.

You will be singing by the end of the day. You’ll praise Him like Moses and the Israelites did after the Red Sea crossing (15:1-18). And even if He doesn’t, praise Him anyway. He is sovereign and knows what is best for you.

Shalom