Stand Still
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: December 12, 2024
Scripture: "And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. 14 The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace” – Exodus 14:13-14 (NKJV)
Devotional Thoughts
The Israelites found themselves in a predicament at the edge of the Red Sea. In front of them lay an impassable body of water; behind them, Pharaoh’s army thundered closer, bent on their destruction. Fear gripped them, and they cried out in despair, questioning why they had left Egypt only to face death in the wilderness.
Yet, in the face of this crisis, God spoke through Moses: "Stand still." These simple but profound words revealed a divine truth—God's power is magnified in our stillness and trust. When we are tempted to panic, run, or fight in our strength, God reminds us to be still and trust in His might.
God's instruction to "stand still" does not imply inactivity or complacency. Instead, it is an act of faith—a call to surrender control, resist fear, and fix our eyes on His ability to deliver. It is in stillness that we make room for His power to work and for His name to be glorified.
When the Israelites obeyed, God parted the Red Sea, creating a miraculous path of deliverance. What once seemed like an insurmountable obstacle became the very means of their victory, while the pursuing Egyptian army was swept away.
Many years ago, a family friend faced a severe financial crisis. The breadwinner lost his job unexpectedly, and they had no savings to fall back on. Bills were piling up, and their mortgage was at risk. The situation seemed hopeless, and every attempt to find a solution brought only more frustration.
During a Sunday service, they heard a sermon on trusting God and standing still in the midst of challenges. Though it seemed impossible, they decided to obey this word. They stopped striving in their strength and committed their situation to God in prayer, choosing to trust His faithfulness.
A week later, things unexpectedly changed, what seemed like a hopeless crisis turned into a testimony of God’s provision and timing.
Practical Reflection
Resist Fear: Fear is often the first response to crisis. Meditate on God’s promises of deliverance and victory, allowing His Word to replace fear with faith.
Trust God’s Timing: Standing still requires patience. God’s timing may not align with our expectations, but His plans are always perfect.
Pray and Listen: Use moments of stillness to seek God’s direction and listen for His voice. Often, He reveals the next step once we surrender the urge to act impulsively.
Closing Thoughts
Standing still in the face of crisis may feel unnatural, but it is a powerful declaration of trust in God’s sovereignty. The same God who parted the Red Sea is still at work today. He sees the obstacles in your path and the battles you cannot fight alone. His words remain true: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Whatever crisis you may be facing, remember that the God of Israel is your deliverer. Stand still, hold on to His promises, and watch as He makes a way where there seems to be none.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for being my ever-present help in times of trouble. When I am overwhelmed by life’s challenges, teach me to stand still and trust in Your power. Replace my fear with faith and my anxiety with peace. Show me Your deliverance, and let Your name be glorified in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.