Faith Walk Through the Valley

Exodus 14:10 As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord…22 and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.
 
Hebrews 11:29 By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned.
 
THIS is an amazing faith walk, isn’t it? Take a few minutes to read Exodus 14. You will discover God was very intentional to move Israel to camp near the sea (Exodus 14:2). Then he moved Pharaoh to pursue Israel. And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and he will pursue them. Here’s a good place to ask, “Why, God, did you bring this challenge on your people, especially when they have just come out of Egypt’s bondage?”
   God answers the question: “But I will gain glory for myself through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord.” God would not only be known to Egypt, but his work to free his people would be known to Israel’s enemies for centuries.
   We cannot imagine the fear that gripped Israel through the long night as God’s wind parted the sea even as the Angel of the LORD was protecting them from Egypt. Did they believe this protection would last through the night? And where were they going – into the sea? How could that be the right way?
   Imagine, too, if you can, the fear of going through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left (Exodus 14:2) A million – plus nation walking through a sea is beyond our understanding. But it is not beyond God’s protection, power and patience. God could have swiftly removed Israel from Egypt without plagues and the Passover. He could have easily directed them safely around the sea. But God chose to take them into one more test through the valley of the shadow of death. God’s purpose was twofold: to glorify his name before the world and to grow Israel’s faith. God wanted Israel to confess to him, “You are with me.” The Lord’s will was that his people would fear no evil. God wanted his people to know that his rod of judgment and his staff of guidance would be a comfort to them all the days of their lives as they dwelled in the land God promised and prepared for them.
   Our hearts are very stubborn. We want to hold onto what we know, even if it harms us and keeps us from God’s blessings. At the first sign of trouble, Israel feared they would all die, even after God protected them in the plagues. And a few days after this miracle, Israel again challenged Moses’ leadership and God’s authority.
   Faith is God’s fuel to move us forward. Sometimes we sip it, wondering what it tastes like or what it will do to us. But the good Lord lovingly wants to fill your cup to overflowing with his wondrous gift. Are you prepared to drink it?
   When threats seem too large, be energized with this power from heaven’s throne. Faith will strengthen, comfort and keep you safe in God’s goodness and mercy all the days of your life. By faith you confidently know you will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (Non referenced italics from Psalm 23)