Trusting God in Uncertain Times Days 2 and 3

Days 2 and 3 -- March 24, 2020

Trusting God in Uncertain Times

Exodus 14:1-14

Somehow my entry for yesterday was lost.  So, I’ll cover verses 1-14 today.  In the opening verses of the chapter, Pharaoh regretted his decision to allow the Israelites to leave Egypt. He had just lost his free labor. So, he set out in hot pursuit of them.  It was a part of God’s plan – this hardening of their hearts.  This would be an opportunity for God to show His glory in yet one more judgment on the Egyptians.  In this coming great act of God, the Israelites would know the He was the LORD – the covenant God of His people. Yet, already the Israelites were showing hearts of unbelief and distrust. They cried out to the LORD as they saw their enemies approaching. They also turned their anger toward Moses.  They preferred the safety of slavery rather than the unknowns of freedom. Moses’ words are legendary. In fact, my often-cursory reading of this chapter led me to think that the Lord spoke the words in verses 13 and 14: “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and see the LORD’s salvation, that He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you” (Exodus 3:13-14 CSB).  Moses knew they stood on the cusp of seeing the mighty hand of God, even though the Egyptians were behind them and the might Red Sea in front of them. Yet, he says “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm."

I am aware that these words were spoken to Israel for that time in history. Yet there are takeaways for us today.  First, we see that God cares for His people. Second, we see that God is in control. He is directing these events to show Himself strong – to strengthen the faith of His people. Third, He is able to deliver, and He will.   As we seek to apply these to our lives in these times of uncertainty, we can trust His care.  Second, there is no need for fear. In fact, he has this situation firmly in control.  Third, there is no need for fear. I remind myself of this moment by moment.  I once heard it said that the Lord tells us 365 times in Scripture not to fear. My heart needs these words in these days of social isolation.  May I cling to His promises and find ways of encouraging others to do the same.