“Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today.'” – Exodus 14:13
The Geography of a Dead End
The Israelites were in a geographical trap. In front of them was the deep, impassable Red Sea. Behind them was the most powerful army in the world, charging with chariots and rage. To the human eye, this wasn’t just a difficult situation—it was a death sentence. They felt like they were about to be crushed into dust.
In our lives, we often hit these “Red Sea moments.” You might feel trapped between a mountain of debt and a job loss, or between a failing health report and a family crisis. When we are backed into a corner, our instinct is to run, to scream, or to give up. But God’s command in that moment is often the hardest thing to do: Stand still.
The Miracle of the Way-Maker
We often think that “beauty” means a life without storms. But in the Bible, beauty is often the miracle of a path appearing right in the middle of the waves.
- Panic Blocks Perspective: When the Israelites panicked, they started wishing they were back in slavery. Panic makes us want to return to old, unhealthy habits just because they feel familiar. Standing still clears the “smoke” of fear so we can see God’s hand moving.
- The Deliverance is God’s Job: Moses didn’t tell the people to build boats or learn to swim. He told them to watch. There are seasons where your effort cannot save you—only God’s intervention can. Your job is the “standing”; His job is the “parting.”
- Walking Through the Walls: When God parted the sea, He didn’t just remove the problem; He turned the problem into a path. The very water that threatened to drown them became walls of protection as they walked through. God can take the very thing you are afraid of and use it as the dry ground for your escape.
A Simple Truth
Being “backed into a corner” is often the setup for a miracle that you will talk about for the rest of your life. If you have no way out, you are in the perfect position to see God do something only He can do. Don’t let the sound of the chariots behind you drown out the voice of the Father in front of you. The sea isn’t a barrier; it’s a bridge in disguise.
How to Stand Firm
- Silence the “Chariot Noise”: The Egyptian army made a lot of noise to cause fear. Today, turn off the “noise” (social media, news, or negative talk) that is fueling your panic. Give God a chance to speak in the silence.
- Plant Your Feet: Literally stand up, plant your feet firmly on the ground, and say out loud: “I am standing still. I am waiting for the Lord.” Physical actions can help settle a restless mind.
- Trust the Timing: God didn’t part the sea three days early; He did it right when they needed it. If the water hasn’t moved yet, it’s because it’s not time to walk yet. Stay in your “standing” position until He gives the signal.
Prayer
Lord, when I am backed into a corner, give me the grace to stand still and trust Your deliverance. Forgive me for the times I’ve tried to swim across oceans I was meant to walk through. Be my Way-Maker today. When I feel trapped by my circumstances, remind me that You are the Lord of the wind and the waves. I’m standing still, and I’m watching for You. Amen.
