by Steve Higginbotham
Imagine the joy, strength, and encouragement that must have been experienced as they witnessed the miraculous deliverance from generations of Egyptian bondage. I can only imagine how they must have felt as they witnessed the power of God in the plagues, the exuberance of freedom and a new life! It’s easy to praise God in such moments.
Fast forward just a few days and they are boxed in with the Egyptians in hot and angry pursuit. Imagine their fear as they heard and saw the approaching army. In such a time as this, it becomes much more difficult to praise God.
But we’re given a glimpse behind the scenes. God brought them to this difficult place to gain honor over Pharaoh and to demonstrate that he is the Lord. While it must have been terrifying to be an Israelite as they saw the dust of approaching chariots on the horizon, God had everything under control. He intentionally placed them in a difficult position so that he would be glorified.
It wasn’t pleasurable, but it was good.
As you know, I have been diagnosed with melanoma. I will be at home recuperating from surgery and worshiping with you today via the Internet. When I think of the events of the past month, I cannot help but think of this incident in Israel’s history.
God has blessed me beyond measure. My bucket is full! I have lacked for nothing. Now this… fear, uncertainty, anxiety, etc. … Just like Israel must have felt. Job once asked, “Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” While I would prefer to serve and glorify God in pleasantness, I realize from Israel’s history that God may be better served and glorified through adversity.
My future will become clearer as the days unfold, but whatever the future holds, my aim is to glorify God!