"Stand Still!"

 “Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD…”
Exodus 14:13-14

When Israel left Egypt, they eventually were pursued by Pharaoh who had changed his mind about letting them go. The Israelites were terrified when they saw the Egyptian army rushing toward them as their way of escape was blocked by the Red Sea. They panicked, cried out to the Lord, and in despondence spoke against Moses who led them there.

Although we’re often critical of Israel’s faithlessness, aren’t we the same sometimes? When life doesn’t go the way we plan or hope; when something is threatened or even lost; when we don’t know what to do or where to turn – do we panic or become despondent? Maybe we aren’t too different from Israel at times.

God said Israel’s history is written for our learning (1 Cor 10:11), so we don’t make the same mistakes they made. So, what will we learn from their panic when we experience great threat and uncertainty?

“And Moses said to the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.’” Exodus 14:13-14

First, don’t be afraid. “Take heed, and be quiet, do not fear…” (Isa 7:4). Fear causes panic and clouds our thinking. God is in control and it will work out.

Second, stand still. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psa 46:10). Wait on the Lord (Isa 40:31). Doing ANYTHING is NOT better than doing nothing! Wait for God’s answer, God’s way, God Word, and God’s authority.

Third, see the salvation of the Lord. “Restore to me the joy of your salvation…” (Psa 51:12). God saves. We need to value that no matter what is happening around us in our physical lives. Take a breath and remember what is eternally important and what we have in Christ. It will change things now and in eternity!             dd