Moses answered the people, “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 14:13-14

A popular affirmation parents use with their children these days goes like this, “Way to be a problem solver. Great job solving that problem yourself.” While one cannot debate the value of problem solving and thinking for oneself, God asked the Israelites to do just the opposite – let him solve their problem.

The children of Israel had fled captivity and Pharaoh. When Pharaoh realized what happened, he summoned his armies and headed out after them. As Pharaoh began to overtake the Israelites, the terrified people cried out to God and Moses in desperation. 

In that moment, their fear outweighed their faith.

And then, God answered. He had a plan – a plan to not only bring the Israelites to safety, but also to bring glory to himself.

His plan? Move on and pass through the sea – not over it, not around it, but “through” it. The angel of God moved in between them and the Egyptian army. Light shone to the side of the Israelites. By God’s mighty power, Moses lifted his hands and the Red Sea parted for them to go across safely on dry ground.

At that point the fear transferred to the Egyptians because they knew the One True God fought for the Israelites. At daybreak passage through the sea ended and the Egyptians perished. As God solved their dilemma, the Israelites renewed their faith in him.

Sometimes, we do not see the whole picture. We do not know God’s plan, but rest assuredly, He does. He asks us to trust in him, to wait with him, and then, to move forward boldly when He gives the command. Not always the easiest thing to do in the midst of the crisis, but we fully see God’s hand on the other side of it.

Lord, sometimes we find it difficult not to solve our own problems as we see fit. We want to rush in and be done with it. You, Oh God, are the ultimate problem solver.  Thank you for your direction and help in times of trouble.

Susan P.