How can we trust God in difficult situations, as seen in Exodus 14:26? Setting the scene: Israel at the edge of the impossible Israel was hemmed in—an impassable sea ahead, Pharaoh’s army behind. Then: “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may flow back over the Egyptians, their chariots and horsemen.’” (Exodus 14:26) God’s command sounded risky: release the watery walls while Israel still needed a way out. Yet Moses obeyed, and the very obstacle that threatened became Israel’s deliverance. What Exodus 14:26 reveals about trusting God • God speaks with perfect timing—even when His timing feels late to us. • Obedience must precede understanding; Moses stretches out his hand before seeing the outcome. • The same power that parts the sea can close it again, proving God governs both rescue and judgment. • God’s instructions may appear counter-intuitive, yet they never endanger His people. Lessons for our difficult moments 1. Remember who issues the command – The God who created the waters (Genesis 1:9–10) can rearrange them at will. 2. Act on what you know, not on what you fear – “We walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) 3. Expect God to turn threats into testimonies – “You intended evil against me, but God intended it for good.” (Genesis 50:20) Practical ways to anchor trust today • Rehearse past deliverances Keep a written record of answered prayers; Israel’s history shows remembrance fuels confidence. • Speak Scripture aloud “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14) • Obey the next clear step Like Moses, do the last thing God told you, even if results aren’t visible yet. • Surround yourself with faith-filled voices “Encourage one another daily.” (Hebrews 3:13) Supporting scriptures that reinforce unwavering trust • Psalm 46:1—“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” • Isaiah 43:2—“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… the rivers will not sweep over you.” • Romans 8:31—“If God is for us, who can be against us?” In every hard place, the God who commanded the sea still commands our circumstances. Trust grows when we remember His power, act on His word, and watch Him transform obstacles into avenues of deliverance. |