When devastating news blindsides us or when discouraging circumstances catch us by surprise, it’s easy to feel discouraged, doubtful, and even dismayed. Like the Israelites, backed up against the Red Sea with Pharaoh’s army charging towards them, we may panic and think, “What am I supposed to do now? There’s no way out!”
But the truth is, God dearly loves us and is a ready help in time of trouble (Psalm 46:1). God makes this promise: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). Nothing we face will ever be too much for God to turn around completely, or work to our good and his glory. The Lord’s arm is not too short that he can’t save us (Isaiah 59:1). He is more than able to provide whatever we may need — and he is as close as a prayer on our lips.
Trapped in a Hopeless Situation
The Israelites were trapped at the Red Sea, watching in horror as Pharaoh and his army raced toward them to enslave them again. The people witnessed their worst nightmare coming true. They were doomed; they had no way of escape. They cringed at the thought of how Pharaoh and the other Egyptians would make things worse for them after Pharaoh’s officers brought them all back into slavery. Not just Pharaoh, but all the Egyptians across the land were mourning the deaths of their firstborn children. What would the Egyptians do to the Israelites if they were enslaved again? It was too horrible to imagine. This time Pharaoh would certainly never let them go. He would have his revenge.
Yet in this moment of panic, Moses was composed and collected, totally unshaken by the charging Egyptian army. Responding to the panicked Israelites, “Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still”’ (Exodus 14:13-14).
Our God is Mighty to Save!
How did God rescue the Israelites? By supernaturally parting the Red Sea and providing a dry sea floor for the people to cross through to safety. God held back the waters until every last Israelite made it through. Our God is mighty to save! Not only did he make a way of escape for his people when none existed, but he was also faithful to ensure that they would never see their Egyptian pursuers again. As soon as the last Israelite made it through the Red Sea and Pharaoh and his army were chasing the Israelites through the dry sea bed, God not only jammed up their chariot wheels, he let go of the waters he had been holding back all night long, drowning the entire Egyptian army, including Pharaoh. That day the Israelites witnessed the incredible power of God to save and deliver.
God has proven, time and again, that he is faithful to deliver, provide for, and restore his people in times of need. The same Almighty God who delivered the Israelites can meet whatever need or impossible situation you may be facing today.
God can turn your situation around in ways you never imagined. Look to him and to his Word for help, and God will amaze you as he works your impossible circumstances for good — turning your mourning into dancing.