Day 17 – Faith in Stillness.

Exodus 14:13-14 (NIV)

Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today… The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

The Israelites had been on an emotional rollercoaster. They had seen God work wonders with the 10 plagues. They had waited in faith behind doorways stained with lambs’ blood for the angel of death to pass them by. Finally, after centuries of slavery in Egypt, Pharaoh let them go. They were headed for the Promised Land.

Suddenly, they heard the sound of an army behind them. Pharaoh had changed his mind. He wanted his slave workforce back. Yet, in front of them was the Red Sea. They were trapped. They cried out to God and complained to Moses. Was their freedom to be over before it had even begun?

“Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today... The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.””

NIV 14-13:14 Exodus()

Now, there are times that we are called to show faith by our actions. If God has given us a clear direction, we need to move that way in a faith response to his leading. But there are other times we show faith by our stillness. Times when the situation is out of our control; when we’re tired, burnt out, or trapped. In these times, we stand still in faith, covered by the blood of the Lamb, and rest in God’s faithfulness.

We are not called to solve everything in our own strength. There are many things we can’t control - other people’s words and reactions, the weather, our spouses and children, homework deadlines or a boss’s ultimatum. We can only control our own words, actions and responses.

It is not up to us to bring to pass God’s promises in our lives - He who promised is faithful (Heb 10:23) and he will bring them to pass. He is the victorious rider whose name is Faithful and True (Rev 19:11). Even if we lose faith, he remains faithful, for it is his very nature (2 Tim 2:13). Therefore, if we can’t do it, we must surrender to the one who can. Stop trying to control every situation and rest in the faithfulness of his nature. The Lord will fight for you. You need only be still.

Family Discussion Questions

1. How do you think the Israelites felt when they saw the sea parted so they could escape from the Egyptians? What would have been your reaction if you were there?

2. What situations are you facing (as individuals or as a family) that are out of your control? Do you need to release any to God and stop trying to solve them alone?

Response - Write

What are some areas in your life that you have been relying on your own strength to solve, rather than being still and allowing God to take control?