Exodus 13:17-14:14

After the children of Israel left Egypt, God led them with a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night through the desert by way of the Red Sea. He went ahead of them. Moses remained obedient to the directions. The Lord told them to turn back and camp between the sea and Migdol. “Pharaoh will think the Israelites are in confusion”. This was a move on God’s part to fake out the enemy and cause him to make foolish decisions. Pharaoh decided to pursue the Israelites because they were backed up against the Red Sea. The Israelites were terrified when they saw Pharaoh’s army marching after them pinning them against the Red Sea.

Moses said, “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.”

The angel of the God, who had been traveling in front of Israel’s army withdrew to behind them. The pillar of cloud also moved from the front and stood behind them, coming between the armies of Egypt and Israel. The Israelites had no idea what was going to happen. .

Often we embark on a new adventure, be it a new job, class, school, or even a trip abroad when things go so well, we think we are in the clear. Little do we know what is following us. Fortunately, the Lord is looking out for us. He can set up a ruse against your enemy. The Israelites believed what they saw and did not focus on what was promised. God promised to deliver them but they only saw the Egyptian army after them to enslave them again. They started complaining and giving voice to their dismay. Moses said, “You need only to be still.” In other words, keep your mouth shut, your heart quiet, and follow directions. The cloud and the fire which were their van guard became their rear guard.

Consider these situations:

• You’ve been moved to a new department where the boss has a bad reputation. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.
• You signed up for a college class that turns out to be more difficult than you thought. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.
• You are on a vacation and your reservations don’t seem to be working out. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.
• You did everything asked of you to make your insurance claim but you can’t seem to move forward. Be still, and let the Lord fight for you.

If you are in obedience moving toward your promise, keep your mouth shut, your heart quiet and watch the Lord fight for you. He is true to his promise.