Sunday, April 26, 2020

Red Sea Rule #2 (Exodus 14:3-4)

Be more concerned for God's glory than your relief.

Recently, we learned that 'God means for you to be where you are.' Were you relieved OR did you feel a little bit betrayed? Why would He want me here? And not just me ... why does He want THE WHOLE WORLD in this situation?

Author Robert Morgan challenges us to reconsider the questions we're asking. "Instead of asking, 'How can I get out of this mess?' try asking, 'How can God be glorified in this situation?' One's perspective is entirely changed by the spiritual realities behind that approach. It's like switching on floodlights in a dark stadium" (21).

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You might remember that Jesus faced a pretty tough scenario as He entered the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples shortly after his ‘last supper’ with them. His agonizing prayer of 'Not my will but yours be done' actually started with 'if there's another way this can go, I'm open to it.' But His anguish-filled submission to the Father's plan modeled for us what it means keep our focus on the bigger, better purpose.

It wasn’t a coincidence that we walked through the first part of our corona-virus quarantines during the weeks leading up to Easter. Perhaps you took the time to read through one (or all) of the Gospels to be reminded of Jesus' journey of purpose and sacrifice, not comfort and self-seeking. (If you didn’t then, you’ve still got time now!)

Robert Morgan points out that "God doesn't waste suffering. If He leads us into impossible spots, He will deliver us in His own time, in His own way, and for His name's sake" (24).

Have you encountered past heartaches which, in time, resulted in your good and God's glory? Be thinking of a word of testimony you can share with your small group (or email me!). Your 'survival' encourages and acts as a reminder that God can -- and will -- do it again!

Questions to Ponder: (RSR, 30)

·        According to Exodus 14:3-4, why did God lead His people to the edge of the sea?


·        Can you think of other biblical heroes or people you currently know who faced great problems in the past that later turned out for their good and for God’s glory?


·        Have you encountered past heartaches which, in time, resulted in your good and God’s glory? (Yes, I know this is the same question as above but hopefully you’ll take a moment and actually answer it now.)


·        Why not compose a simple prayer right now to reflect a changed perspective on the way you’ve been viewing your Red Sea dilemma?

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