Psalm 106:7b-8

Psalm 106:7b-8

For His Name's sake

The triumphant march of the Hebrew slaves out of Egypt turned into a terrifying anti-climax. They had eagerly packed up their possessions, untied their flocks and herds and set off in cheerful processions, carrying the wealth of the Egyptians in their bags. It was only when their route led them to the shores of the Red Sea that the people recognised their dilemma and the mortal danger that they were in. As they looked back across the flat desert land behind them, they could see the dust cloud of the Egyptian charioteers and the marching army that was in pursuit. The accusations levelled at Moses for leading them into this apparently inevitable catastrophe were bitter and angry: -

·      Was it because there were no graves for us in Egypt that you have brought us here to die?

·      What have you done by bringing us out to this place of death?

·      We told you that we wanted to be left alone, to serve the Egyptians.

·      It would have been better to stay as slaves than to die in the desert. 

God had a different agenda and Moses knew it. He spoke to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still.” Exodus 14:10-14. 

Two reasons are given for these saving acts of God, Firstly, He saved them for His name’s sake. If the Israelites had died, there in the desert, the name of our God would have been buried with them and He would have been consigned to the pages of myths and legends. Secondly, it was time for the whole world to sit up and take notice, this God, our God, is powerful and mighty! The events that were about to unfold would demonstrate forever, that even the natural forces of this planet must obey Him, and the greatest army of that time would be destroyed in a matter of hours. God showed that when He takes His people’s side, nothing can thwart His plans or hinder His purposes. And, thousands of years later, we still wonder at His miraculous power and His ability to protect and guard those who are His. Hallelujah!

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