February 1

Deliverance

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalms 18:25-36 | Exodus 13:17-15:18 | Matthew 21:23-46 | Proverbs 6:16-19

Today’s Scripture Focus: Exodus 13:17-15:18

“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” (Exodus 14:13 NIV).

God sure knows how to write a great drama. With an army in hot pursuit behind them, the people of God come to a major obstacle: the Red Sea. As the army closes in, and with nowhere to go, what would they do?

The natural reaction to overwhelming situations is to give in to fear. Moses addresses this tendency directly. “Don’t be afraid.”  He encourages them to trust God to bring deliverance. Instead of giving into fear, he invites them to trust.

Another reaction might be to panic or try to do something desperate. Moses tells them, “Be still.”  Instead of trying to do something desperate in their own strength, he reminds them to put their hope in God who has promised to protect them.

Are you experiencing overwhelming circumstances? Do not fear. Put your trust in God the deliverer. There is no need to panic. If God can open up the Red Sea so a multitude of people could pass through, he can make a way for you. Put your hope in the one who fights on your behalf, God your protector. “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

Sovereign God, I am looking to you. When life overwhelms, remind me not to fear but to trust in you. Thank you for your salvation. Thank you for your deliverance. Thank you for fighting for me. Open a way where there seems to be no way. Help me to be still and know that you are God. Amen.