From The Pastor’s Desk
Step In the Water!
(This is a paraphrase of an article written by Rev. John Ed Mathison years ago)
One of the most awe-inspiring stories in human history is captured in the Book of Exodus. It reveals the reality of people in bondage, the qualities of leadership needed to guide them out, the reluctance of individuals to have faith and follow, the command from God to always move forward, and the incredible power of God to lead people through seemingly impossible situations.
The Egyptians enslaved the Israelites, and God chose Moses to free them. As they left Egypt, the Egyptians pursued them. They faced the daunting challenge of crossing the Red Sea with courage and determination. Exodus 14 recounts how the Israelites yearned to return to Egypt, believing they would be safer there. Moses continually urged them to obey God and follow Him. A crucial phrase that remains relevant during challenging times is found in Exodus 14:15, where God tells Moses, “Tell the sons of Israel to go forward.” This obedience is a commitment we must maintain in our faith journey.
When encountering a difficult situation in life, remember that God can redefine what is possible. God is greater than any enemy behind us and stronger than any force in front of us. We must obey and move forward.
Moses stepped into the water. God instructed him to stretch out his hand, and a powerful east wind blew, holding the water back and turning the sea into dry land. The Israelites walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground and safely reached the other side. The Egyptians were unsuccessful.
God raises up leaders today who, like Moses, don’t follow the wisdom of people but obey God's command. Godly leaders don’t necessarily win popularity contests. They don’t make decisions based on what seems most obvious to everyone else. Godly leaders follow God's command.
Exodus 15:22 states that the people of Israel “went through the middle of the sea on dry land." God didn’t simply leave them in the situation and abandon them; instead, He guided them forward and through the peril. When you encounter a major situation in life, don’t just approach it and face it with half-hearted trust in God. He wants us not just to enter the situation but to navigate through it.
Remember how David said in the 23rd Psalm, “When we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we will fear no evil, for God is with us, and His rod and staff comfort us.” We don’t remain in the valley – we move through it. The reason we can endure is that God is with us, and His rod and staff are always there to comfort and protect us.
What obstacle are you facing today? In what area of life is God calling you to be a Godly leader? Are you willing to trust and obey Him? Are you willing to keep going forward and walk through the water? God provides everything necessary to do that.
Step into the water and Come Grow with Us,
Misty