
Israel experienced how God fights for us in transition. God had enabled them to leave slavery in Egypt. Even though they were no longer under their slave masters, they still had a slave mentality. It would take time for them to become a free nation. God knew this and guided their exit from Egypt accordingly.
Exodus 13: 17 When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, “If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” 18 So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea. Thus, the Israelites left Egypt like an army ready for battle. [1]
A Battle They Couldn’t Win on Their Own
While the people left Egypt like an army ready for battle, when Pharaoh’s army appeared, they panicked. They realized they were untrained and no match for the Egyptians. But they had a leader who trusted God. Exodus 14: 13 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. 14 The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”[2]
God had allowed this battle. Some might say that God even caused it because He hardened Pharaoh’s heart. God had led His people to a place where they were trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s army. There didn’t appear to be any way of escape. But God. God used this situation to demonstrate His glory and power both to Egypt and Israel.
The Unexpected Solution
Even though Moses trusted that God would fight for them, I don’t think he expected God’s plan. Exodus 14: 15 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! 16 Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground. 17 And I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they will charge in after the Israelites. My great glory will be displayed through Pharaoh and his troops, his chariots, and his charioteers.” [3]
Safety in the Transition
God also provided safety as the people moved into place. Exodus 14: 19 Then the angel of God, who had been leading the people of Israel, moved to the rear of the camp. The pillar of cloud also moved from the front and stood behind them. 20 The cloud settled between the Egyptian and Israelite camps. As darkness fell, the cloud turned to fire, lighting up the night. But the Egyptians and Israelites did not approach each other all night. [4]
God had positioned His people in a place where they couldn’t win, gave them an unexpected solution, and kept them safe. God fights for us in transition, both then and now. To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/trusting-god-in-the-transition
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.








