Bad Luck or Providence?

"But Moses told the people, 'Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.' ... When the people of Israel saw the mighty power that the LORD had unleashed against the Egyptians, they were filled with awe before him. They put their faith in the LORD and in his servant Moses." Exodus 14:13-14, 31 NLT

When the Israelites found themselves between the proverbial rock and a hard place with the pursuing Egyptian army on one side and the Red Sea on the other side it was by God's design (see 14:1-4). God led them into this "trap" so that He might once again display His glory and strengthen Israel's faith for the journey that lay ahead. With great power and wisdom God parted the waters to deliver the Israelites and He defeated the Egyptian army. As a result Israel "put their faith in the LORD and in his servant Moses [God's appointed leader]."

If we find our self between a rock and a hard place it might be that something more than rotten luck is at work [I don't believe in luck]. God may have in fact led us to this place so that He may show us His power and increase our faith. So when the picture looks bleak hear Moses' words, "Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today." "Stand still" does not mean do nothing. It means look to God in faith anticipating His faithful action on your behalf and move out in obedience as He leads. Our tight spots are God's moment to shine His glory into and through our lives.

Father, You have shown your faithfulness time and time again so I pray when trouble comes help me to remember to look to You in faith rather than panicking in fear. Shine the light of Your glory into the darkness of my difficulties.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark