“And Israel saw that great work which the Lord did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the Lord, and believed the Lord, and his servant Moses,” Exodus 14:31.
The Israelites were terrified. The Lord had miraculously moved the Egyptians to release them from slavery, but now their former masters had changed their minds and were bent on capturing these departing workers. With mountains on each side, the Red Sea in front, and the Egyptian army rapidly approaching from behind, the Israelites felt trapped. They could see nothing but obstacles in every direction. Sometimes we may find ourselves hemmed in by mountains of adversity and a sea of uncertainty. Perhaps an army of debt, poor health, and strained relationship appears to be closing in on us. In many circumstances we must recognize that our strength is insufficient to bring us through without help. Where we as humans see obstacles, God sees opportunities.
He wants to show Himself strong on behalf of His people for His name’s glory. In the face of Israel’s despair, Moses said: “Fear not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you today.” Too often we try to fix our lives by our own abilities instead of turning to God. When we encounter things too big for us, we are compelled to give up our own efforts and rely on Him for He is bigger than we. This was exactly where the Israelites were and exactly where God wanted them.
Today He teaches us dependence on Him in the same way, by placing us in situations too big for us to conquer ourselves. We don’t need to wait until we face a dire predicament. Why not take our small problems to God—and our blessings too? He loves to hear about our everyday life. And when we find ourselves in a desert experience, let’s allow God to turn our obstacles into opportunities. God’s power can transform predicaments into praise if we let Him.
(Dr. Monterey D. Lee, Sr. is the pastor of Celebration Christian Center, Inc., located at 1215 9th Ave. N. Nashville, Tenn. 37208.
You can contact the ministry at 615-613-7757 or online at ).
