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 Song of Moses: A Song of Victory and Deliverance

 

The Song of Moses: A Song of Victory and Deliverance

Text: Exodus 15:1–21; Revelation 15:2–4

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Introduction:

Music has always been a powerful way to express the soul’s deepest emotions—joy, sorrow, awe, and gratitude. After one of the greatest deliverances in history, Moses and the Israelites did not remain silent—they sang! Exodus 15 records the first song in Scripture: the Song of Moses. It is a song of triumph, worship, and testimony, and it holds significance far beyond the shores of the Red Sea. In fact, this same song echoes into eternity, as seen in Revelation 15, where the redeemed sing the song of Moses and the Lamb.

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The Content of Moses’ Song (Exodus 15:1–18):

After the miraculous parting of the Red Sea and the destruction of Pharaoh’s army, Moses and the Israelites broke out in praise. The song exalts God’s power, His faithfulness, and His victory over evil.

• Verse 1 opens with a declaration: "I will sing to the LORD, for He has triumphed gloriously; the horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea."

• The song praises God as a warrior (v.3), a deliverer (v.2), and a God of unmatched power (v.6).

• It recounts the destruction of Egypt’s army, not as a military achievement by Israel, but as a divine act of judgment and mercy.

• It also points forward, declaring that God will plant His people in the land of promise (v.17) and reign forever (v.18).

This was not just a song of celebration—it was a declaration of God’s character and a testimony of His salvation.

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Miriam and the Women Join In (Exodus 15:19–21):

Following the song of Moses, Miriam the prophetess, Moses' sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing. She sang:
“Sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea.” (v.21)

This moment is significant. It shows that deliverance leads to worship, and worship is communal. It wasn’t just Moses and the leaders; everyone, including the women, joined in praise. Their voices, instruments, and dancing reflected the joy of freedom, the gratitude of salvation, and the unity of God’s people in worship.

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The Song of Moses and the Lamb (Revelation 15:2–4):

Centuries later, John the Revelator sees a scene in heaven:
"And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb..." (Rev. 15:3)

The connection between Exodus 15 and Revelation 15 is powerful. In both, God delivers His people—in Exodus, from Egypt; in Revelation, from the power of sin, Satan, and this world.

The song in Revelation praises God's justice, righteousness, and holiness:

• “Great and marvelous are your works, Lord God Almighty!”

• “Just and true are Your ways, O King of the saints!”

The deliverance in Revelation is eternal. The sea of glass reflects peace instead of chaos. The redeemed have harps, not weapons. They sing because God has finally and fully conquered evil, and His judgments are righteous and true.

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What This Means for Us Today:

The song of Moses is more than an ancient hymn—it’s an example for us.

• We, too, are called to praise God in response to deliverance.

• When God brings us through trials, defeats enemies in our lives, or reveals His power in unexpected ways, our response should be worship.

• Like Miriam and the women, we should be unashamed to celebrate what God has done, publicly and joyfully.

• And like those in Revelation, we must remember that God’s final victory is certain. His judgments may seem delayed, but they are just, true, and sure.

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Conclusion:

The song of Moses reminds us that God is both Savior and Judge, Warrior and Shepherd, and Redeemer and King. As He brought Israel through the sea, He will bring us through every storm. And one day, when all is made new, we too will join in the song—not just of Moses, but of the Lamb, who gave Himself for us and conquered death forever.

So let us sing now in faith what we will sing in eternity:
“Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways, O King of the saints!”

Amen.

The Battle for Humanity: Satan's Claim and Our Redeemer

 

"The Battle for Humanity: Satan's Claim and Our Redeemer"

Scripture Focus:

• Job 1:6–11

• Matthew 4:8–9

• Jude 1:9

• Luke 22:31

• Book of Ruth

From Genesis onward, we see a cosmic controversy—Satan claiming ownership of this fallen world and the souls within it. Scripture paints a sobering picture of the adversary’s accusations, ambitions, and attacks. But it also gives us hope—a Redeemer who steps in when we are helpless.

Satan’s Bold Claim to Ownership

In Job 1:6–11, Satan appears before God, not as a trespasser but as one who believes he has the right to speak for the earth. When God highlights Job’s righteousness, Satan mocks it, claiming Job only serves God because of divine protection. In other words, Satan claims that no one truly belongs to God—they’re his, bought by fear or favor.

In Matthew 4:8–9, Satan dares to offer Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. He doesn’t say he’ll steal them—he offers them as though they are already his. And Jesus doesn’t argue that point, because the world, steeped in sin, was indeed under Satan’s dominion, temporarily.

In Jude 1:9, we see a spiritual tug-of-war over the body of Moses. Satan contends even for the dead! He doesn’t yield his claim easily. This reveals how deeply he believes that humanity—living or dead—belongs to him.

And in Luke 22:31, Jesus tells Peter that Satan has “asked to sift you like wheat.” Satan claims the right to test, to shake, to try us—again showing his belief that we are his to break.

Boaz and the Story of Redemption

This brings us to the book of Ruth. In Ruth’s story, Naomi and Ruth return from Moab destitute and without hope. Ruth, a foreigner and widow, had no standing, no claim to land or future. But Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer, steps in—not because he had to, but because he chose to.

Boaz pays the price to redeem Ruth and the land that belonged to her family. He confronts legal obstacles, just like Christ faced Satan’s accusations. He satisfies the requirements of the law and covers Ruth with his name—just like Jesus covers us with His righteousness.

The Gospel in One Word: Redeemer

Satan may claim us—by sin, by heritage, by right of death. But just as Boaz redeemed Ruth from loss and shame, Jesus is our Redeemer. He came not just to silence Satan’s claims, but to fulfill the law and purchase us with His blood.

Just as Boaz stood before the elders to redeem Ruth publicly, Jesus triumphed openly over Satan at the cross (Col. 2:15). Satan's claim was real—but Christ’s authority is final.

Though Satan claims dominion over humanity, Jesus claims us in love. He redeems us not just from sin, but from the false ownership of the enemy. In a world where Satan says, “They are mine,” Jesus says, “No—they are Mine, bought with a price.”

Just like Ruth, we were outsiders with no hope. But God sent a Redeemer. And in Him, we are safe, loved, and free. Amen!

More: Lesson 11: Ruth and Naomi

Christ Our Passover Lamb

 

"Behold the Lamb: Christ Our Passover"

Text: Exodus 12:1–11; Isaiah 53:7–8; 1 Corinthians 5:7; Revelation 5:6

In Exodus 12, God institutes the first Passover, commanding the Israelites to sacrifice a spotless lamb, smear its blood on their doorposts, and eat the meal in haste, for deliverance was at hand. That lamb, offered in faith and obedience, stood between life and death. It was not just a rescue from Egypt—it was a foreshadowing of a greater deliverance yet to come.

Today, we look to Jesus Christ, revealed in Scripture as our true Passover Lamb. Let us consider what these verses reveal about Him, and what it means for us.

The Lamb of Deliverance – Exodus 12:1–11

The first Passover was marked by urgency, blood, and obedience. The lamb had to be without blemish, and its blood had to be applied to the doorposts. God said, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” This is more than ancient history—it is a divine pattern.

Jesus is the fulfillment of that lamb. He is sinless, blameless, and His blood, when applied to our hearts through faith, spares us from judgment. Just as Israel was delivered from bondage, so are we delivered from the bondage of sin and death.

The Silent Sufferer – Isaiah 53:7–8

Isaiah describes the Messiah as a lamb led to the slaughter—silent, submissive, unjustly condemned. Jesus did not resist His arrest, did not answer His accusers. Why? Because He had come for this very purpose. He bore our griefs. He carried our iniquities.

He was not a victim; He was a willing sacrifice. And this silent suffering was the price of our peace.

Christ, Our Passover – 1 Corinthians 5:7

Paul declares it plainly: “Christ, our Passover, is sacrificed for us.” The old leaven of sin must be purged. The church, like ancient Israel, must walk in holiness, remembering that our salvation was bought at the cost of the Lamb of God.

This isn’t just theology—it’s a call to action. Our lives must reflect the sacrifice made for us. Just as the Israelites left Egypt behind, we must leave our old life behind.

The Lamb on the Throne – Revelation 5:6

Finally, John sees “a Lamb standing as though it had been slain.” This is the climax of the story. The Lamb who died now reigns. He is worthy to open the scrolls of history because of His sacrifice. In heaven, Christ is not only Savior—He is exalted King.

This reminds us that the cross was not the end, but the beginning of a kingdom. The Lamb reigns. And we who belong to Him will reign with Him.

What about Us Now?

Jesus is the true Passover Lamb—spotless, silent in suffering, sacrificed for us, and now enthroned in glory.

What does this mean for each of us?

It means we are rescued—not by works, but by blood.
It means we are called—not to comfort, but to obedience.
It means we are loved—not conditionally, but eternally.

Let us behold the Lamb, believe in the Lamb, and become like the Lamb—marked by His sacrifice, shaped by His love, and sealed for His kingdom. Amen.

More: Lesson 6 Understanding Sacrifice

Finding Peace in Christ Amid Life’s Tribulations

John 16:33 (NIV): “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  

Life is full of challenges. We experience trials, heartaches, and difficulties that sometimes leave us feeling overwhelmed. Jesus, in His final words to His disciples before going to the cross, did not promise a life free of trouble. Instead, He assured them—and us—that tribulations will come. However, He also gave us a message of hope: In Him, we can find peace.

 The Reality of Tribulations  

Jesus did not sugarcoat the truth. He clearly said, “In this world you will have trouble.” This means that as long as we live on this earth, difficulties are inevitable. Whether it be sickness, financial struggles, relationship challenges, or spiritual battles, no one is exempt from trials.  

But here is the key: Jesus does not leave us in despair. He reminds us that even in the midst of our troubles, we can find peace in Him. 

 The Assurance of Peace  

Jesus said, “In me, you may have peace.” Notice that this peace is not found in the absence of trouble but in Christ Himself. The world offers temporary solutions—distractions, material comfort, or even denial—but true peace can only come from Jesus.  

His peace is a supernatural peace. It is the same peace that calmed the storm when His disciples were afraid (Mark 4:39). It is the peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).  

 The Victory of Christ  

Jesus concludes with a powerful declaration: “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” These words remind us that no matter how great our struggles are, Jesus has already won the ultimate victory.  

 He conquered sin and death through His sacrifice on the cross.  

 He rose from the grave, proving that nothing—not even death—can separate us from His love.  

 He reigns as the victorious King, and one day, He will wipe away every tear and make all things new (Revelation 21:4-5).  

How do we live in this peace despite our trials?  

 Trust in Christ daily. Lean on His promises and know that He is in control.  

 Pray and seek His presence. When anxiety arises, turn to Him in prayer (Philippians 4:6-7).  

 Hold onto His Word. Meditate on Scripture and let it strengthen your faith.  

 Encourage others. Remind those around you of the victory we have in Jesus.  

Keep the Faith

Yes, troubles will come, but we do not face them alone. Jesus has already overcome the world, and in Him, we can find unshakable peace. So, no matter what you are going through today, take heart! Jesus has already won the victory.  

More: Sabbath School Lesson 8: Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence

Trusting in God's Goodness, Despite all the Evil in our World

  

"Hope Beyond the Suffering"  

 Scripture Reading  

- Romans 8:18 (NIV) – “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”  

- Revelation 21:3-4 (NIV) – “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’”  

Every day, we see evidence of suffering, injustice, and evil. Wars rage, diseases spread, families break apart, and many are burdened with grief. In moments like these, we may ask, "Where is God?"  

Yet, Scripture assures us that our suffering is not the final chapter. Romans 8:18 reminds us that the pain we endure now is nothing compared to the glory God has prepared for us. Revelation 21:3-4 gives us an incredible promise—God will dwell with His people, wipe away every tear, and remove all pain forever.  

God’s Presence: “God Himself Will Be With Them”  

The most powerful aspect of Revelation 21:3 is that God Himself will be with us. From the beginning, God has desired a close relationship with His people. In the Garden of Eden, He walked with Adam and Eve. Through Jesus, He came to dwell among us (John 1:14). And in eternity, He will dwell with us in an even greater way.  

This means that we are not alone in our suffering. Even now, through the Holy Spirit, God is present, comforting and strengthening us (John 14:16-17).  

God’s Compassion: “He Will Wipe Every Tear from Their Eyes”  

Tears are a universal language of pain—whether from loss, disappointment, or sorrow. But in eternity, God Himself will wipe away every tear.  

This is not just a poetic image; it is a personal act of love. Just as a loving parent wipes the tears from a child’s face, God will remove our pain with His own hand. This shows us that God sees our suffering, He cares deeply, and He promises to heal every wound.  

God’s Victory: “No More Death, Mourning, Crying, or Pain”  

In this life, we experience loss—loved ones pass away, relationships break, and our own bodies grow weak. But God’s promise is clear:  

No more death – The greatest enemy, death, will be defeated (1 Corinthians 15:54-55).  

No more mourning – Grief and sadness will be erased.  

No more crying or pain – All the suffering caused by sin will be gone forever.  

This is the final victory of God’s goodness over evil. Everything broken will be restored.  

Trusting God Through the Pain  

When we look at our world, it’s easy to be discouraged. But these Scriptures remind us:  

- Our pain is temporary, but God’s glory is eternal (Romans 8:18).  

- God is not distant—He is with us and will bring perfect restoration (Revelation 21:3-4).  

- We have a future where suffering will be no more.  

So, how do we respond? We trust. We endure. We hope. Just as Christ endured suffering for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2), we can hold on, knowing that our struggles today will one day be replaced by eternal joy in God’s presence.  

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, remain faithful, and look forward to the day when He will wipe away every tear. Evil does not win—God does!  

More: Sabbath School Lesson 7 The Problem of Evil