Trusting God to Fight Our Battles

 

Trusting God to Fight Our Battles

Text: Exodus 23:20–33

In Exodus 23:20–33, God gave His people specific promises about entering and conquering the Promised Land. He reminded them that the victory was not about their own power or cleverness, but about His presence, His guidance, and His faithfulness. The Israelites were to trust, obey, and move forward in faith, because the Lord Himself had already gone ahead of them.

God Promised to Go Before Them
God told Israel: “See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared” (Exod. 23:20, NIV).

• This “messenger” or angel has often been understood as a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ Himself—the One who guided them as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

• God was making it clear: “I will fight for you. I will protect you. I will lead you.” The Israelites didn’t need to figure everything out; they simply needed to follow in obedience and trust.

God Desired to Do the Fighting
When Israel escaped Egypt, they saw with their own eyes the Red Sea open before them and then close upon Pharaoh’s army. They didn’t lift a sword that day—the Lord Himself fought for them.

• That memory should have strengthened their faith. If God could defeat the world’s most powerful empire in one night, surely He could drive out the Canaanites.

• But sadly, many times they forgot His power. Their unbelief turned what should have been a swift victory into years of wandering.

The Promised Land Was Already Theirs
The land of Canaan wasn’t something they had to earn. God had already sworn it to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It was theirs by covenant promise.

• Their role was not to make the promise come true—it was simply to believe it and walk into it.

• Every battle, every city, every enemy was already under God’s control. Faith was the key to unlocking the inheritance.

The Consequence of Unbelief
Instead of resting in God’s promises, Israel often doubted. At Kadesh Barnea, they listened to the fearful report of ten spies rather than remembering God’s mighty acts. Their unbelief closed the door to blessing and delayed God’s plan.

• Unbelief doesn’t cancel God’s promises, but it can keep us from enjoying them.

• Trust opens the door for God to work; fear closes it.

God’s Faithfulness Through History
Even after the wilderness failures, God never abandoned His people. Again and again, He raised up faithful leaders who trusted Him.

• One powerful example is King Hezekiah in 2 Kings 19. Surrounded by the Assyrian army, with no hope in human strength, he prayed and trusted God. That very night, God sent His angel and struck down 185,000 enemies.

• The same God who fought for Israel then, still fights for His people today.

Our Faith Today
Exodus 23 reminds us that the battle belongs to the Lord. He goes before us. He sends His Messenger—Jesus Christ—to lead and protect. He has already secured the victory. What He asked of Israel, He asks of us: trust, obedience, and faith.

We may not be facing Canaanite armies, but we face trials, temptations, and spiritual battles. The same God who fought for His people then still fights for us today. Our task is not to win in our own strength, but to believe His promises, to follow His leading, and to trust that He is faithful.

Just as God worked through leaders like Hezekiah, He still works through His people today. And He has not changed—He is faithful still.

The Law That Leads Us to Christ

 

The Law That Leads Us to Christ

Text: Romans 3:20–24; Romans 10:4

In Romans 3:20–24 Paul writes, “Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin. But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known… This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.”

This passage raises an important question: if the Ten Commandments and the law cannot save us, then what role do they play in our lives today? And when Paul says in Romans 10:4 that “Christ is the end of the law,” what does that mean?

The Law Reveals Our Need
Paul is very clear: the law was never meant to be a ladder by which we climb into heaven. Instead, it is like a mirror. In Romans 3:20 he says the law makes us “conscious of sin.”

When we look into God’s commandments, we see His holiness—and at the same time, our failures. The law exposes our brokenness, showing us that we fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). But this revelation is a gift, not a curse. Because until we know our need, we will never reach out for the Savior.

The Law as a Guide for Living
Although the law cannot save, it still has a purpose in the life of the believer. Think of it as a fence around a pasture. The fence does not give life to the sheep, but it protects them. In the same way, God’s commandments give us boundaries so that we might live in freedom, not slavery to sin.

Jesus Himself affirmed the moral law when He summarized it as love for God and love for neighbor (Matthew 22:37–40). The Ten Commandments show us what that love looks like in practice: honoring parents, valuing life, guarding purity, telling the truth, respecting others’ property, and worshiping God alone.

Christ the “End” of the Law
But Paul goes further in Romans 10:4: “Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.”

The word end here does not mean destruction, as though the law no longer matters. Instead, it means goal, purpose, or fulfillment. Christ is the destination to which the law has always pointed. The law prepared the way by showing humanity its need for righteousness. Christ fulfills that need by being our righteousness.

The Law Points to Jesus
Every time the law convicts us, it drives us back to Christ. The commandments whisper, “You cannot do this on your own.” But Jesus answers, “I have fulfilled it for you.”

Through His perfect life, Jesus obeyed the law in our place. Through His death and resurrection, He bore the penalty for our disobedience. And now, by faith, His righteousness is credited to us (Romans 3:24).

So the law continues to function as a signpost. It points beyond itself to the Savior. It reminds us that salvation is not in rules, but in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

The LAW for US Today
Romans 3 and 10 together teach us that the law is not abolished, but completed in Christ. The Ten Commandments still guide our lives, but they cannot save us. They show us our need, they set boundaries for living, and above all, they lead us to Jesus—the One who is both the end and fulfillment of the law.

So let us not despair when the law shows us our failures. Let us rejoice that it points us to the One who never failed, who kept the law perfectly, and who now offers us grace freely.

As Paul declares: “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe” (Romans 3:22).

Jethro: A Testimony that Speaks to the Nations

 

A Testimony that Speaks to the Nations

Text: Exodus 18:8–10

When Moses met with his father-in-law Jethro in the wilderness, the conversation quickly turned to the mighty acts of God. Exodus 18:8–10 tells us that Moses “told his father-in-law all that the LORD had done to Pharaoh and to the Egyptians for Israel’s sake, all the hardship that had come upon them on the way, and how the LORD had delivered them.” And when Jethro heard this testimony, he blessed the Lord, saying, “Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods.”

Here is a beautiful truth: Jethro, a Midianite priest, did not learn about the true God from philosophical debate or clever argument. He learned about Him through the evidence of what God had done for His people. That was the witness that won his heart.

The Witness that Changed Jethro

Jethro had his own religious background and gods, but what Moses shared was different—it was personal and powerful.

1. It was personal – Moses didn’t speak of God in abstract terms. He recounted real events: the plagues in Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, the provision in the wilderness. These were not myths; they were lived experiences.

2. It was purposeful – The stories were not random acts of power. They showed that God acts for His people—to save, protect, and provide for them.

3. It was persuasive – Jethro saw the superiority of Israel’s God because the testimony was undeniable. It matched what he saw in the people’s lives.

Why This Principle Holds True Today

The same way Jethro came to know the true God is how many still come to know Him today—not through theory first, but through the witness of God’s people.

1. God’s work is still visible – Every conversion, every answered prayer, every life transformed is a visible act of God that speaks louder than words.

2. Testimony builds faith – Revelation 12:11 says that God’s people overcome “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Personal testimony has a God-given power to move hearts.

3. The world is hungry for evidence – In a skeptical age, people still respond to authenticity. When they see lives changed, marriages restored, addictions broken, joy in the midst of suffering—they see the living God at work.

The Witness of the Church to the World

If someone today were to “visit” our church like Jethro visited Moses, what testimony would they hear?

1. Do we speak of God’s mighty acts?

   • Not only from the Bible, but from our own lives: How He saved us, healed us, provided for us.

2. Do our actions match our words?

   • The early church in Acts 2 was known for love, generosity, and unity. The way we treat each other preaches a louder sermon than the one from the pulpit.

3. Do we reflect God’s character?

   • Our worship, fellowship, and outreach should tell the world that God is holy, loving, merciful, and just.

What We Say to the World About God

Whether we intend to or not, our church is always saying something to the world about who God is.

• If we are cold and divided, the world may think God is distant and uncaring.

• If we are loving and sacrificial, the world will see God’s love in action.

• If we stand for truth with grace, the world will see God’s justice and mercy together.

We are “living letters” (2 Corinthians 3:2–3), written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God. Every action, every word, every choice tells others something about Him.

For Us Today

Jethro came to believe in the true God because he heard and saw what God had done for His people. The same principle holds today: the world will believe when they see God’s reality in our lives.

So let us ask ourselves:

• What story is my life telling about God?

• What story is our church telling about God?

May we, like Moses, be ready to share what God has done, so that others—like Jethro—can say with confidence: “Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods.”

Bread from Heaven: Learning Trust Beyond the Stomach

 

"Bread from Heaven: Learning Trust Beyond the Stomach"

Scripture Reading:

Exodus 16:1–36

Food is one of the simplest, most basic human needs—and one of the most common points of spiritual testing in Scripture. From the very beginning in Eden, food has been at the center of major turning points in the human story. In Exodus 16, we find the Israelites grumbling in the wilderness, their stomachs louder than their memories of God’s mighty deliverance at the Red Sea. This chapter shows us not only how God meets physical needs, but also how He teaches His people deeper lessons—about trust, obedience, and the Sabbath.

The Cause of Israel’s Grumbling (Exodus 16:1–3)

• The Israelites had been freed from slavery, had seen the Red Sea part, and had sung songs of deliverance. But just one month later, in the wilderness of Sin, hunger became their main focus.

• Their complaint was sharp: "If only we had died by the LORD’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted" (v. 3).

• This reveals two things:

  1. Selective memory – They remembered the food but forgot the slavery.

  2. Short-term faith – They trusted God for the big miracle at the Red Sea but not for daily bread.

God’s Response: Manna from Heaven (Exodus 16:4–36)

• God graciously answered—not with judgment first, but with provision.

• Each morning, a fine, flaky substance appeared with the dew. They called it manna (“What is it?”).

• Daily gathering rule: They were to gather just enough for that day—no storing leftovers—except on the sixth day.

• The Sabbath lesson:

  • On the sixth day, they gathered twice as much, and it did not spoil overnight.

  • On the seventh day, none fell. This reinforced the weekly rhythm God established at Creation—a day of rest and trust.

  • The manna cycle was a living, edible reminder of the 7-day Sabbath God ordained.

Food as a Point of Testing Throughout the Bible

• Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:1–6) – The first sin came through eating what God had forbidden. They put appetite above obedience.

• Esau (Genesis 25:29–34) – He sold his birthright for a single meal, despising the long-term blessing for the short-term satisfaction of his stomach.

• Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–4) – After 40 days of fasting, Satan tempted Him to turn stones into bread. Jesus quoted Deuteronomy: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."

  • This is the key: God’s Word sustains us more deeply than any physical meal.

How We Can Resist Being Tempted by Food

• Remember the Provider more than the provision – Gratitude shifts the focus from the plate to the One who fills it.

• Practice self-control and fasting – Spiritual disciplines help train the body to serve the spirit, not the other way around.

• Learn to trust God’s timing – Waiting on Him for provision is part of faith.

• Feed on God’s Word daily – Just as the Israelites gathered manna each morning, we must gather spiritual nourishment through Scripture.

Lessons for Us Today

• God hears before we even pray – He responded to Israel’s grumbling with provision.

• Obedience matters in the small things – The Sabbath manna test wasn’t about bread; it was about trust.

• Physical hunger can be a doorway to spiritual growth – If we respond with faith instead of complaint.

The Israelites’ story in Exodus 16 reminds us that our greatest hunger is not for bread, but for God Himself. Manna in the wilderness pointed forward to Jesus, the true Bread of Life (John 6:35).

When we feel tempted—whether by food or by anything that promises quick satisfaction at the cost of obedience—remember Jesus’ words: "Man shall not live by bread alone."
Let us be a people who hunger first for righteousness, trusting that all other needs will be added to us.

This week, as you eat your meals, pause and ask: "Am I feeding my spirit as well as my body?" Make time to gather your daily manna from God’s Word and keep the Sabbath as a reminder that life is more than what’s on the table—it’s about Who is at the table with us.

Between the Miracle and the Red Sea: Trusting God in the In-Between

 

“Between the Miracle and the Red Sea: Trusting God in the In-Between”

Introduction:

Have you ever found yourself standing in the “in-between”? You’ve seen God move. You’ve tasted His goodness. You know His power. And yet—here you are—facing a new challenge, and suddenly your faith feels weak. Why is that?

This was exactly where the children of Israel found themselves—after the miracle of deliverance from Egypt, before the parting of the Red Sea. One would expect rejoicing and unwavering faith, but instead we hear fear, doubt, and even accusations against Moses and God.

Let’s look at their story and reflect on ours. Why do we, too, so often falter between the miracle and the next challenge?

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1. God's Past Faithfulness Is Not Always Our Present Focus

“And they said to Moses, ‘Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die?’” — Exodus 14:11

After all they had seen—the plagues, the Passover, the release from slavery—they panicked at the sight of Pharaoh’s army. Why? Because their eyes were on the problem, not on the Provider.

We’re no different. When life closes in, our minds often default to fear rather than remembering how God has already carried us.

“Forget not all His benefits.” — Psalm 103:2

Spiritual forgetfulness breeds fear. That’s why Scripture calls us to remember—to keep God’s faithfulness in clear view.

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2. We Like Deliverance but Struggle with Dependence

God delivered Israel from Egypt with a mighty hand. But now, at the Red Sea, He was inviting them to trust Him again. And that’s hard. Why? Because we don’t like to feel helpless.

“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” — Exodus 14:14

Stillness is hard when you're being chased. Trust is difficult when you don’t see the way forward. But it’s in those very moments that God shows His power best.

“We live by faith, not by sight.” — 2 Corinthians 5:7

Dependence on God is not a one-time act at conversion—it’s a daily lifestyle of trust.

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3. Our Fear Is Loud, but God's Voice Is Louder

God didn’t rebuke their fear with anger—He responded with a way forward.

“Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Why do you cry to Me? Tell the people of Israel to go forward.’” — Exodus 14:15

God doesn’t leave us paralyzed in fear. He calls us to move in faith. Even when the sea hasn’t yet parted, His command is clear: Go forward.

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.” — Psalm 56:3

Fear will knock. But faith answers. And faith is rooted not in ourselves, but in who God is.

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4. God Uses the In-Between to Grow Our Faith

Sometimes God places us after the miracle but before the next one so that our faith will deepen. The Red Sea moment wasn’t just about escape—it was about revelation.

“Israel saw the great power that the Lord used against the Egyptians, so the people feared the Lord, and they believed in the Lord and in His servant Moses.” — Exodus 14:31

Faith doesn’t grow in safety—it grows when we’re pressed to trust what we cannot see. And when we do, we know God more deeply.

“The testing of your faith produces perseverance.” — James 1:3

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Conclusion:

So, why do we find ourselves like the Hebrews—faltering in faith despite God’s clear track record? Because we’re human. But God is gracious. He meets us in the in-between. He parts seas. He strengthens our trust. And He patiently teaches us to walk by faith.

Let us commit to being people who remember, depend, listen, and grow—especially when we’re standing between the miracle and the Red Sea.

“Jesus said, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me.’” — John 14:1

Amen.

Stand Still and See the Salvation of the Lord

 

“Stand Still and See the Salvation of the Lord”

Text: Exodus 14:13–31

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Introduction
Have you ever felt completely trapped—cornered by fear, circumstance, or the unknown? The Israelites, newly freed from Egyptian slavery, felt exactly that. Behind them was Pharaoh’s army, armed and enraged. Before them, the Red Sea—wide, deep, impassable. And in that moment of panic, their faith crumbled. But God’s power didn’t.

Let’s reflect today on what God did for Israel despite their fear, and what that means for us when we face our own “Red Sea” moments.

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 God Acts Even When We Doubt
Exodus 14:13–14 (NKJV): “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today... The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.”

The Israelites cried out in fear and accused Moses of bringing them to die in the wilderness. After all they had seen—plagues, deliverance, the pillar of cloud and fire—they still couldn’t trust fully. But God didn’t wait for perfect faith. He acted.

Application:
God doesn’t require perfect faith to show up. He meets us where we are—in our fear, our confusion, even our complaints. He knows our frailty and still moves in mercy. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

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 God Makes a Way Where There Is No Way
In verses 21–22, the impossible happens: the sea parts, and Israel walks through on dry ground. The same water that became their salvation became the destruction of their enemies.

Application:
We often look at obstacles and only see what can’t happen. But God works in ways we can’t see or imagine. Isaiah 43:19 says, “Behold, I will do a new thing... I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

God may not always part a literal sea, but He still removes barriers, rearranges outcomes, and protects us in ways we’ll only understand in hindsight. He works in the background, preparing victories we don’t yet see.

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 We Must Learn to Trust God's Timing and Presence
Israel wanted immediate escape. God gave deliverance—but in His way, at His pace, and for His glory. In verse 19, we see the angel of God and the pillar of cloud move behind Israel, standing between them and Egypt—God was shielding them even before the miracle happened.

Application:
We may not feel like God is doing anything, but that doesn’t mean He’s absent. He may be placing divine protection between you and danger right now. Psalm 121:4 assures us that “He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.”

To grow in trust, we must:

• Reflect on past victories God has given us.

• Soak in His promises—like Hebrews 13:5, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

• Surround ourselves with reminders of His faithfulness—through Scripture, testimony, and worship.

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 Let the Red Sea Moments Strengthen, Not Shake, Our Faith
Verse 31 tells us, “Israel saw the great work which the Lord had done... so the people feared the Lord, and believed in the Lord and in His servant Moses.”
God used the Red Sea not only to save them—but to build their trust.

But here's the challenge: This faith didn’t always last. Later, they would complain again, doubt again, and even long to return to Egypt. Why? Because they forgot.

Application:
Don’t forget what God has done. Write it down. Tell it to your children. Build your life on His faithfulness. Don’t let today’s fear erase yesterday’s miracle.

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 Learning to Stand Still and Trust
You might be facing your own “Red Sea” today. Maybe fear is pressing from behind and doubt is blocking the way ahead. But listen again to God’s word through Moses:
“Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.”

God is still the same—merciful, powerful, and present. Trust that He is working behind the scenes. He is not late. He is never overwhelmed. And just like the Israelites walked through walls of water on dry ground, He will make a way for you.

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Final Charge:
Let’s not be like the Israelites who quickly forgot. Let us remember, trust, and praise—even before the sea parts. Amen.

Crossing the Red Sea: Led by God Even When the Way Seems Impossible

 

“Led by God Even When the Way Seems Impossible”

Text: Exodus 13:17–14:12

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Introduction:

When God delivered Israel from Egypt, their journey didn’t begin with an easy road. It began with a wilderness. In Exodus 13:17–14:12, we see how God not only led them, but prepared their hearts for faith in the middle of fear. Their story teaches us that God never abandons His people—even when the path looks like a dead end.

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God’s Guidance Is Not Always the Straightest Path (Exodus 13:17–18)

“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter…” (13:17).

God chose the long way on purpose.

Why? Because the Israelites weren’t ready for war. They had just come out of slavery; they needed to learn trust, not go straight into battle. Sometimes the longer road is God’s mercy, not a mistake.

Lesson: God's detours are divine protection. Trust Him even when the journey feels longer than it should.

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Marching Forward in Faith, Carrying the Past with Purpose (Exodus 13:19)

The Israelites didn’t just leave Egypt; they carried something precious: the bones of Joseph.

Joseph had made his descendants promise to carry his bones to the Promised Land. This act was full of meaning. It showed they remembered God's promises, and that even in death, Joseph believed God would keep His word.

Lesson: Carry the promises of the past into your present journey. God’s past faithfulness fuels today’s faith.

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Guided by God’s Presence (Exodus 13:20–22)

The people camped at places like Etham. They didn’t know the way—but they didn’t need to. Why?

“By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud… and by night in a pillar of fire...” (13:21)

This was not just about direction; it was about presence. The cloud and fire said, “I am with you.” God was literally showing them the way and protecting them—day and night.

Lesson: We walk by faith, not by sight—but we are never alone. God's presence lights the way, even in the dark.

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God’s Plan Includes Moments That Test Our Faith (Exodus 14:1–9)

Then came a turning point. God told them to camp near the sea—in a trap. Pharaoh would think they were confused. But God had a purpose.

When Pharaoh’s heart hardened, he chased them. Horses, chariots, and soldiers closed in fast. The people looked up and saw danger bearing down. Panic set in.

Lesson: Sometimes God leads us into a place where we must depend on Him. Not because He wants us to suffer—but so we can see His power and grow our trust.

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Don’t Run Back to Egypt (Exodus 14:10–12)

In their fear, the people cried out and said something heartbreaking:

“It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness!” (14:12)

This is the danger of spiritual short-sightedness. When the pressure comes, we often want to go back to what's familiar—even if it's slavery.

Lesson: Don’t let fear rewrite your faith. Egypt may look easier, but freedom is on the other side of faith.

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When Things Seem Hopeless, Stand Firm (Application)

God was not surprised by Pharaoh. He was in control all along. The sea may have looked like a barrier, but it was about to become a miracle.

When we face impossible odds—debt, loss, sickness, fear—remember this:

The same God who brought you out is the God who will bring you through.

In the next verses (which follow our main text), Moses tells the people,

“Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today” (14:13).

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Conclusion:

What does this story mean for us?

• When the way is unclear — Trust the God who leads with cloud and fire.

• When fear rises — Remember what He has already done. Carry Joseph’s bones.

• When Egypt calls you back — Say no. God didn’t bring you out to leave you now.

• When the sea is in front and Pharaoh behind — Stand firm. Keep walking. Deliverance is coming.

God leads us step by step, not all at once. But He never leads us halfway. Faith isn’t proven on the easy roads—it’s forged at the Red Sea.

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Closing Prayer:

Lord, when we are trapped between what was and what is not yet, help us to remember that You are still leading us. When we are tempted to go back to Egypt, remind us that You have called us to freedom. Give us courage to stand firm, to trust You, and to move forward even when the way seems impossible. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tell the Children: Passing Down the Story of Salvation

 

Tell the Children: Passing Down the Story of Salvation

Text: Exodus 12:24–28

In Exodus 12:24–28, we find God giving His people a crucial command—not just to keep the Passover as a memorial, but to teach it. This was not a private ceremony to be kept in silence or secrecy. It was a divine appointment for storytelling, for legacy, for instruction. It was about remembrance—but even more than that—it was about transmission.

Let’s read the passage:

“Obey these instructions as a lasting ordinance for you and your descendants. When you enter the land that the Lord will give you as he promised, observe this ceremony. And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.’ Then the people bowed down and worshiped. The Israelites did just what the Lord commanded Moses and Aaron.” (Ex. 12:24–28, NIV)

Parents Are the First Teachers of Faith

Notice who God places at the center of the instruction process: the parents. “When your children ask you…” This wasn’t the job of a Levite or priest or professional teacher—it was the responsibility of every mother and father. In Hebrew culture, education began at home. And especially in matters of faith, the home was the classroom and the parents were the teachers.

This principle remains true today. Parents, you are not just raising children—you are raising disciples. Your table is an altar, and your stories are sermons. Your children learn most not from your lectures, but from your lived-out faith, your daily trust in God, and your retelling of His faithfulness.

The Importance of Handing Down History

God commanded the Israelites to remember, to rehearse, and to retell the story of their deliverance from Egypt. This was not about nostalgia. This was about identity. To forget the story would be to forget who they were and whose they were.

History is not dead when it is told with living faith. It becomes a powerful bridge between generations. That’s why Passover was celebrated year after year—it engraved the memory of God's mighty salvation into the hearts of His people.

Christians today must also value history—biblical history, Church history, and personal testimony. We are not the first generation to walk with God, and we won’t be the last. The younger ones need to know the God who parted the sea, who fed the prophets, who raised the dead—and who saved you.

Pass Down Your Own Story of Salvation and Miracles

It's not enough to teach theology. We must also teach testimony.

What has God done for you? How has He delivered you, provided for you, healed you, or redeemed you from sin? These are the stories that make the truth personal and powerful.

When your children ask about your faith, don’t just tell them what the Bible says—tell them how you’ve lived it. Don’t let them grow up thinking miracles are only ancient stories. Let them know how God answered your prayers, rescued you from despair, or changed your life.

Your testimony is a flame that can ignite faith in others—especially in the next generation.

Bow and Obey

Verse 27 says, “Then the people bowed down and worshiped.” When God’s people understood the weight of this command—to remember and to teach—they worshiped. True worship follows true understanding. And verse 28 ends with this: “The Israelites did just what the Lord commanded.”

That’s the goal. Not just to hear, not just to remember, but to act. Passover wasn’t preserved because it was a beautiful ceremony; it was preserved because faithful people obeyed and passed it on.

So today, let’s recommit ourselves—not only to living the faith—but to telling it. Tell your children. Tell your grandchildren. Tell your church. Tell your neighbors. Tell the story—of the Lamb, of the blood, of the deliverance, of your Savior. And watch as that testimony shapes the next generation. Amen.

More: EXODUS Sabbath School Lesson 5 - Passover

The Lips of Moses: When Hope Fades: God Still Speaks

 “When Hope Fades: God Still Speaks”

Text: Exodus 6:9–13

Have you ever had a moment where you felt like all your trust in God amounted to nothing? A time when you thought you were following God’s plan, only to see things go from bad to worse?

That’s where we find Moses and the Israelites in Exodus 6:9–13. Moses has obeyed God's call to confront Pharaoh, yet instead of deliverance, the suffering of the people increases. And now, God gives Moses another charge—to go again and speak to Pharaoh. But Moses is discouraged, and he uses a strange phrase to express it: “Behold, I am of uncircumcised lips.”

What does this moment teach us about disappointment, about struggle, and about continuing to follow God when it feels like everything has failed?

Disappointment Can Mute Our Faith (v. 9)

“Moses reported this to the Israelites, but they did not listen to him because of their discouragement and harsh labor.” (Exod. 6:9, NIV)

God had just made incredible promises—freedom, redemption, and a new relationship with Him. But the people didn’t listen. Why? Because they were crushed by discouragement and harsh labor.

Lesson:
Even when God's Word is true and powerful, the pain of life can make it hard for us to hear. Disappointment can close our ears to hope. We must recognize that spiritual numbness doesn’t mean God has failed—it means we’re human.

Obedience Doesn’t Always Bring Immediate Success (v. 10–11)

“Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Go, tell Pharaoh king of Egypt to let the Israelites go out of his country.’”

This is the second time God tells Moses to confront Pharaoh. The first time had ended in disaster. The natural human instinct would be to back away from trying again. But God calls Moses to continue.

Lesson:
Obedience is not measured by outcomes but by faithfulness. The first attempt didn’t bring success—but God hadn’t changed His plan. Sometimes we must press forward even when nothing seems to work.

“Uncircumcised Lips” — A Picture of Inadequacy (v. 12)

“But Moses said to the Lord, ‘Since I speak with uncircumcised lips, why would Pharaoh listen to me?’”

This phrase “uncircumcised lips” appears only here in the Old Testament. It’s a metaphor for being unclean, unworthy, or inadequate. Circumcision represented covenant membership—Moses feels like his mouth isn’t worthy of representing God.

Lesson:
Moses is not just complaining about speech difficulties; he’s expressing deep insecurity. He feels spiritually disqualified. But God doesn’t respond by fixing Moses—He responds by reaffirming the mission.

Encouragement:
God does not depend on your perfection to fulfill His promises. If you feel unworthy or ill-equipped, you are in good company with Moses, Isaiah (“unclean lips”), and Jeremiah (“I am only a youth”).

God’s Patience and Sovereignty (v. 13)

“Now the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron and gave them a command about the Israelites and Pharaoh king of Egypt: He commanded them to bring the Israelites out of Egypt.” (CSB)

God doesn’t rebuke Moses. He simply recommissions him. In God’s plan, there is space for human weakness and divine persistence. God keeps the mission moving forward—even when His messengers falter.

Lesson:
When we are discouraged, God remains determined. When we struggle to trust, God still speaks. Our struggles do not derail His purpose—they become the very platform for His power.

How About Us?

Exodus 6:9–13 is a snapshot of divine calling in the middle of human discouragement. The Israelites couldn’t hear because of pain. Moses couldn’t speak because of fear. But God still speaks. And He still calls.

When life leaves us tired and discouraged—when our words feel weak and our faith feels small—God is not finished.

Let’s remember:

• God's promises are true, even when our pain drowns them out.

• Obedience isn’t about immediate success; it’s about continued trust.

• Feeling unworthy doesn’t disqualify us—because it’s God who qualifies.

• When we can’t hear or speak, God still commands deliverance.

Let Him strengthen you today—not because you’re ready, but because He is faithful.

Prayer:

Lord, in moments of disappointment, speak again. When we feel like we have uncircumcised lips, remind us that You choose the weak to show Your strength. Help us to listen, to obey, and to trust—even when nothing makes sense. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 3 - Rough Start

Rough Start for Moses: When Obedience Makes Things Worse Before They Get Better

 

When Obedience Makes Things Worse Before They Get Better

Text: Exodus 5:3–23
Key Verse: “May the Lord look on you and judge you! You have made us obnoxious to Pharaoh and his officials and have put a sword in their hand to kill us.” – Exodus 5:21 (NIV)

Have you ever obeyed God—and immediately regretted it?

Not because it was the wrong thing to do, but because the consequences felt worse than before you obeyed?

In Exodus 5:3–23, Moses and Aaron finally stand before Pharaoh with a divine message: “Let my people go.” But what follows is not a triumphant breakthrough—it’s backlash. Pharaoh not only refuses but intensifies Israel’s suffering. And the people? They turn their anger on Moses and Aaron.

It’s one of those moments when doing the right thing seems to make life worse. But in that painful tension, God is at work.

The Immediate Outcome of Obedience (vv. 3–19)

Moses and Aaron obey God’s command. They speak directly to Pharaoh:

“The God of the Hebrews has met with us. Let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to the LORD our God…” (v.3)

But Pharaoh’s reaction is harsh and proud:

• He dismisses their God (v.2).

• He accuses them of distracting the Israelites from their work (v.4–5).

• He punishes the people by increasing their labor—no more straw for bricks, but the same daily quota (v.6–9).

Obedience triggered resistance.

And not just resistance from Pharaoh—but pain for the people of God. That’s a hard pill to swallow. We often expect obedience to result in blessing, clarity, and ease. But the pattern of Scripture—and real life—often shows that obedience first leads us into hardship, not out of it.

The People’s Reaction to Moses and Aaron (v. 21)

The foremen of Israel, beaten and blamed for falling short, meet Moses and Aaron and say:

“May the Lord look on you and judge you! You have made us obnoxious to Pharaoh and his officials and have put a sword in their hand to kill us.” (v.21)

In modern words: “Thanks a lot. You’ve made our lives even worse. You’ve given Pharaoh a reason to destroy us.”

Now imagine yourself in their place:

• You were already suffering.

• Someone promises deliverance.

• And the result? More pain.

Wouldn’t you be angry too? Wouldn’t you feel betrayed, confused, even resentful?

It’s easy to judge their words, but honesty compels us to admit we might have said the same.

Moses’ Desperation and Honest Prayer (vv. 22–23)

Moses turns to God—not in praise, but in protest:

“Why, Lord, why have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me?... You have not rescued your people at all.” (vv.22–23)

This is the raw, painful heart of a man who obeyed—and saw everything get worse.

Yet here’s the lesson: God does not rebuke Moses. He listens. And in the next chapter, He reaffirms His covenant, His power, and His plan (Exodus 6:1–8).

God can handle our honest prayers. He invites us to bring confusion, pain, and protest to Him.

Lessons for Today

1. Obedience may lead to opposition.
   Don’t assume that doing God’s will means a smooth path. In fact, opposition can be a sign that you’re right where God wants you.

2. God sees beyond the immediate.
   Pharaoh’s cruelty didn’t catch God off guard. In fact, God told Moses in Exodus 3:19–20 that Pharaoh would resist. The pain was part of the process.

3. People may blame you for doing the right thing.
   Moses and Aaron weren’t wrong—but they were targets of anger. Sometimes, the cost of leadership is being misunderstood. Be faithful anyway.

4. God honors honest prayer.
   When the road gets rough, take your pain to God. Don’t pretend. He welcomes honesty and responds with reassurance.

The encounter in Exodus 5 reminds us that following God doesn’t always yield instant results. Sometimes obedience brings struggle, and the people we hope to help may turn against us. But this isn’t the end of the story.

God is not silent. He is setting the stage for deliverance. The oppression gets worse—but that’s because freedom is drawing near.

So if you're in a place where obedience seems to have made things harder, take heart: God is still writing the story. What looks like a step back is often a setup for a mighty act of deliverance.

Keep trusting. Keep obeying. And keep praying.
Because God sees. And He will act—with a mighty hand.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 3 - Rough Start

I Do Not Know the Lord

“I Do Not Know the Lord”

Text: Exodus 5:1–2

In Exodus 5, Moses and Aaron deliver a bold and divine message to Pharaoh:

“Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: ‘Let My people go, that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness.’” (Exod. 5:1)

But Pharaoh’s reply is defiant and dismissive:

“Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, and moreover, I will not let Israel go.” (Exod. 5:2)

This short exchange is a collision of two worldviews: God’s authority versus human pride. And Pharaoh’s response reveals more than a personal refusal—it reflects the heart of rebellion that still resists God today.

Pharaoh’s Response: Rejection and Ignorance

Pharaoh responds with two declarations:

1. “Who is the Lord?”
   Pharaoh didn’t deny gods existed—he had a whole pantheon of them. But Yahweh, the God of the Hebrews, was unknown to him. He saw no reason to submit to this foreign deity.

2. “I do not know the Lord… I will not let Israel go.”
   This wasn’t just ignorance—it was willful ignorance. Pharaoh’s heart was proud and closed. His mind was made up before he heard the message.

Significance:

• Pharaoh’s rejection highlights the natural human resistance to God’s rule.

• It foreshadows the hardening of his heart throughout the plagues.

• It sets the stage for God to make Himself known—through mighty acts that will answer Pharaoh’s question: “Who is the Lord?”

The World Still Says: “I Don’t Know the Lord”

Many today echo Pharaoh’s words—not always in anger or defiance, but in confusion, indifference, or ignorance:

• “I don’t know the Lord.”

• “Why should I obey Him?”

• “How do I even know He’s real?”

Sometimes this comes from arrogance, like Pharaoh. But often, it comes from lack of experience with God’s truth and love. And here is where we enter the picture.

Our Response to Those Who Don’t Know the Lord

1. Be Patient and Compassionate.
Not everyone is Pharaoh. Some genuinely don’t know God because they’ve never seen Him modeled. We can be the first glimpse of God’s love they encounter.

“Always be prepared to give an answer… with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15)

2. Point Them to the Lord Through Your Life.
Pharaoh needed to see God’s power. Many today need to see God’s love—through us.

Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matt. 5:16)

3. Speak Boldly—but Humbly—About Who God Is.
Moses didn’t back down from Pharaoh. And we shouldn’t shrink from speaking about our faith. But like Moses, we can speak with humility, knowing it’s God who works through us.

4. Pray for God to Reveal Himself.
Ultimately, only God can change hearts. He can show Himself to those who say, “I don’t know the Lord”—just as He revealed Himself in Egypt.

The Lord Will Make Himself Known

Pharaoh said, “I don’t know the Lord.”
By the end of the story, he knew. All of Egypt knew. The plagues, the Passover, the parting of the sea—all answered Pharaoh’s question.

But let’s not miss this: God wanted to be known not just as Judge, but as Deliverer. And that’s the same heart God has today.

“This is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” (John 17:3)

When the World Doesn’t Know God

So what do we do when someone says, “I don’t know the Lord”?
We don’t argue them into faith. We show them. We live out the truth. We speak with grace. And we pray that the Lord who revealed Himself in Egypt will also reveal Himself to them—through His Word, His Spirit, and even through us.

Let’s be people who know the Lord—and make Him known.

Prayer:

Lord, we live in a world where many say, “I don’t know the Lord.” Help us be vessels of Your love and truth. Teach us to respond with grace, boldness, and compassion. And may those who don’t know You come to know You through Jesus, Your Son, our Savior. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 3 - Rough Start