Text:
Exodus 14:10-14, 21-25
Memory Verse:
“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’” (Exodus 14:13).
When the Israelites felt trapped, their first reaction was to cry out to the Lord. This should always be our first reaction during trials. If the Israelites had remained focused on God, rather than rail on
Moses, the terrible fear that engulfed them would not have held them so. They shifted their focus from God who had done such awesome wonders in their presence in Egypt and took their fear out on Moses with insults and complaints. Similarly, in Matthew 14:28-31, Peter started sinking when he gave in to fear upon seeing the boisterous wind, rather than focus on Jesus
Christ.
If we remain focused on God, no matter how terrible a situation may seem, fear will not grip us. Our strength, in the face of trials, lies in focusing on God, who is always true to His words, and will come through for us when He sees our tenacity in holding on to Him. If we cling to His testimonies, we will not be put to shame (Psalm 119:31).
In times of trials, we also need friends and brethren to speak faith into us as well as to help us hold on. Moses had to encourage the Israelites not to fear, but wait and see what God would do with their enemies. We should also learn to encourage ourselves in the Lord our God, like king David (1 Samuel 30 :6). We must not give in to despair because, if we do, we might not even hear God’s
instructions on how to get out of the problem.
Prayer Points:
1. Father, please grant me grace to remain focused on You in the face of trials.
2. Father, please help me to hear Your instructions, even when I am troubled.
