When I was a little girl, I was terribly afraid of dogs. It didn’t matter the size of the dog or how friendly the dog was, I was terrified. Every time we came near a dog, my mom or dad had to pick me up and carry me to what I deemed was a safe place, far away from the dog.
In a similar way that my parents would keep me safe from the perceived danger I faced near a dog, God provided incredible protection for the Israelites as they walked through the Red Sea and towards protection from the Egyptians.
Enveloped in His Care and Protection
If you’ve gone to church for any amount of time, you’ve probably heard the story of the Red Sea. God parts the waters. The people walk through. The enemy is defeated, and all is well and good.
But look at the first words Moses says to the people as they are about to embark through this miracle: “Do not fear!” This was not the children’s Bible depiction of a happy people walking through with smiling fish looking on.
The people were running for their lives. It was dark. It was chaotic. It was probably loud. Many were probably just following what the people in front of them were doing. It’s not like you see a wall of water to your right and left everyday. I’m sure many were wondering how long this pathway would be open.
This journey was also not like crossing the road. They were walking a far distance, trusting God the whole way.
But like my parents enveloped me in their arms, demonstrating the kindness and care and protection, God was protecting the Israelites. The angel of God came as a pillar of cloud to go before and behind the people. He enveloped them in His care. He surrounded them, and they need not fear.
Moving Forward in Obedience
Often in life, God’s call to obedience may stop us in our tracks and usher in immediate fear. It’s in these moments that we have a choice. Will we trust God and move forward, or will we stay put and allow fear to be our master?
I know that can be easier said than done. But what would it look like today for you to express your fears to God and take one step forward in obedience? It doesn’t mean you have to start sprinting forward in obedience. It could truly be taking a granny-shuffle forward, but the movement is forward.
The Israelites were probably wondering and questioning each step of their journey across the Red Sea, but they went forward. I wonder if with each step, their confidence and resolve were strengthened, especially as they reached the end and heard the others that reached the shore.
We are not meant to walk through the Christian life on our own. Yes, God has us firmly in the palm of His hands, but He has also graciously given us the church. The people of the church are meant to encourage and support one another as we see to live obediently to God’s call and direction.
Where do you find yourself today? Are you in a place where you need to take a step forward? Are you in a season where you’ve seen God come through in your life, and now you need to encourage someone else in their walk? God doesn’t waste any season or experience. They are all part of His grand plan for our good and His glory.
Don’t let fear keep you from experiencing the blessing of a life of obedience. It may be scary, but it is absolutely worth it.
