Exodus 14

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XIV.—God frequently musters up difficulties in the way of his people, that his glory may appear in subduing and helping over them. Often he feeds the pride and malice of his enemies by apparent prosperity, that he may ripen them for destruction; while, with blind infatuation they quickly repent of their best deeds, and rush forward in their hatred of God and his people, till they find no place for repentance of their wickedness! What necessity there is to set out in the Lord’s way with much strong faith, assured hope, and holy courage, as in it we may lay our account with many and great perplexities and troubles. Such as escape out of a sinful world may expect a hot pursuit from the devil and his servants: but he that brings us out with an high hand can bear us up with everlasting strength. In straits let me therefore never dare to chide my deliverer, or to think of returning to my bondage, but in patience possess my soul, hoping for his salvation. What he does I know not how, but I shall know hereafter. Sedateness in danger is the most likely mean to extricate myself out of it; and to encourage my heart in God is the way not only to remove my fears, but to surmount my difficulties. However dangerous and dark the path be, if I go forward God will take care of the event; and, while the darkness of sin leads down to the darkness of eternal death, the light of grace will conduct me to eternal life and light in glory. What a present help is God in trouble! But how tremendous a foe! Who can stand before him if once he be angry! Certain is their fall at last who are found fighting against God! If the Lord has delivered me from so great a death, let my heart, not for a while only, but for ever, be kindly impressed with his mercy; and rejoice that Jesus has delivered, and will deliver, his church at the expence of her enemies