Exodus 14 Commentary
Pharaoh changes his mind. He pursues Israel. We have yet another sign from the LORD, but it’s not for Pharaoh. It’s God’s people. They must see the LORD in action.
Israel needs this sign to face unchartered waters ahead. The miracle should encourage them to go ahead and face their enemies with ease and arrogance.
Not all battles come to break you! Some are demos for your own good! It’s an expo! The glory of the LORD God on display!
It’s wrong enough to have fear at this moment – especially after seeing everything the LORD has done in Egypt. But to add suspicion, regret, and doubt is a step too far. But that’s what we have. Israel lets her fear speak, not her faith!
However, the love story between the LORD and His faithless people doesn’t end here. Pharaoh approaches. The intention is clear. The danger is clear and present.
What happens here is truly amazing. The Pillar of Cloud and the Pillar of Fire move and change positions to prevent Pharaoh from touching Israel. Yes, the Pillar of Fire provides light, but protection is a new function!
And then Moses is commanded to part the Red Sea. Israel walks on the bed of the sea as on dry ground. The details are important. Let Israel see the Pillar of Fire by night or the Pillar of Cloud by day and know they are forever safe.
Let no one doubt. The enslaved Israel is saved from cruel oppression. The freed Israel is saved from military aggression – the most powerful military machinery is defeated by the hand of God! Let this story sink in!
The LORD has provided the most important tool in the armory: Memory. Memories are important for our Christian walk. By constantly referring to Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the LORD seeks to provoke memories of His powerful works in the lives of these patriarchs. This sign is to be written on their hearts and should always be remembered in case of battle.
Egypt is a well-organized society at this moment. It is a military superpower in the region. The LORD has made a huge statement that Israel should not fear anyone else. The same LORD would do the same to any opposition. This sign should register very strongly in their minds.
This chapter establishes a pattern to follow. Whenever you face trouble, sit down and be still. Let the LORD who worked wonders in your life come to your aid again. Memories are an important weapon.
This is phase two. Phase one consisted of the battle against the “secret arts” – the gods of Egypt through whom Pharaoh exercised his powers. They were disarmed one by one. Amongst these gods is a mortal man who thinks they have it all together by themselves and for themselves. Pharaoh is at the head of these gods. They have their own lessons to learn.
Phase two concerns the physical battle. Victory here means the saint can trust the LORD in all things.
More resources visit http://www.lovingscripture.com
LOVING SCRIPTURE 