What steps can we take to strengthen our faith when facing overwhelming situations? Facing the Red Sea Moments “They said to Moses, ‘Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us away to die in the wilderness? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt?’” (Exodus 14:11) Israel’s first reaction to an impossible situation was terror-laden accusation. Their words expose what our own hearts often sound like when waves are high and escape routes disappear. Yet moments like this become classrooms where faith can deepen instead of collapse. Acknowledge the Fear, Don’t Camp in It • Fear is real; pretending it isn’t only buries it. • Note how God allows the complaint to surface, then answers it (Exodus 14:13-14). • Psalm 34:4 reminds us, “I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” • First step: name the fear before the Lord, surrendering it instead of nurturing it. Remember God’s Past Faithfulness • Israel forgot the plagues, the Passover, the gold in their packs. We forget our own rescue stories just as quickly. • Psalm 77:11—“I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old.” Practical helps: – Keep a written record of answered prayers. – Tell the stories out loud in your home. – Celebrate anniversaries of God’s interventions. Rehearse His Character and Promises • Hebrews 13:8—“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • Isaiah 43:2—“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…” • Romans 8:31—“If God is for us, who can be against us?” Let these truths cycle through your mind; speak them aloud. Fill the mental space fear wants to occupy. Stand Still and Let God Speak • “Do not be afraid; stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation…” (Exodus 14:13). • Stillness is not inactivity; it is focused expectation. • Philippians 4:6-7 guides us to replace anxious striving with thankful petition so His peace can “guard your hearts and minds.” Step Forward in Obedience • “The LORD said to Moses, ‘Why are you crying out to Me? Tell the Israelites to go forward.’” (Exodus 14:15) • Faith strengthens as it moves. The sea did not part until Israel advanced. • Identify the next clear act of obedience—make the phone call, forgive, apply for the job, confess the sin—and take it. Fill the Air with Worship • After victory, Moses and Miriam sang (Exodus 15). They could have sung before; we still can. • 2 Chronicles 20:22 shows God setting ambushes against enemies when Judah worshiped. • Play, sing, or speak praise—worship enlarges the view of God and shrinks the size of the crisis. Keep Walking by Faith, Not by Sight • 2 Corinthians 5:7—“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” • Faith is a daily walk, not a one-time leap. • Surround yourself with believers who will echo truth, share Scripture, and refuse to let you drift back into Exodus 14:11 thinking. When fear rises, each of these steps shifts the focus from the size of the obstacle to the certainty of the God who parts seas. |
    |