Almighty Yet Considerate - A FEAR-INSPIRING BUT CONSIDERATE SAVIOR

When the Israelites left Egypt in 1513 B.C.E., they may have numbered more than three million. Spanning three or even four generations, there were children, elderly ones, and no doubt some who were infirm or disabled.  To lead such a vast crowd our of Egypt certainly called for an  understanding and thoughtful leader.  Jehovah, by means of Moses, proved to be such.  As a result, the Israelites felt safe as they left the only home they had ever known. -Psalm 78:52, 53.

How did Jehovah make his people feel safe and secure?  For one thing, he led them out of Egypt in well-organized  "battle formation."  (Exodus 13:18)  Such organization surely reassured the Israelites that their God was in control.  Also, Jehovah made his presence visibly manifest by means of "a cloud by day and . . . the light of fire by  nigh.  (Psalm 78:14)  In effect, Jehovah was saying:  "Do not be afraid. I am with you to guide and protect you."  Indeed, such reassurance was soon needed!

Read Exodus 14:19-22.  Picture yourself there, trapped between Pharaoh's forces and the Red Sea.  Then God acts.  The pillar of cloud moves to the rear of the camp, blocking the Egyptians and keeping them in darkness.  Your vast camp, however, is bathed in miraculous light!  Then you see Moses stretch out his hand over the sea, and a strong east wind opens a wide path to the other side. In an orderly manner, you, your family, and your domestic  animals walk out into the seabed with the rest of the people.  Immediately, you notice something odd.  The seabed is not miry or frozen; it is dry and quite firm, making it easy to walk. As a result, even the slowest ones  cross safely to the other side. 

Read Exodus 14:23, 26-30.  In the meantime, proud and foolish Pharaoh rushes out onto the seabed in hot pursuit. Again, Moses stretches out his hand over the sea.  This time, the two congealed walls of water collapse.  The sea rushes in from both sides, like two tsunamis  on a collision course.  Pharaoh and his hordes do not stand a chance! 

Next time: Almighty Yet Considerate - A FEAR-INSPIRING BUT CONSIDERATE SAVIOR

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