Stand Still
The sermon emphasizes the importance of standing still in faith during difficult times, trusting in God's timing and guidance.
Charles E. Cowman preaches on the importance of trusting in God's guidance and timing, especially in times of great difficulty and uncertainty. When believers are faced with obstacles on all sides and feel trapped, God's command is to 'stand still' and wait for His direction. Despite the temptations of despair, cowardice, precipitancy, and presumption, true faith listens to God's voice and remains steadfast, ready for His orders. By maintaining a posture of patience and trust, believers can be assured that God will eventually lead them forward into His perfect plan.
Text
"Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord" (Exod. 14:13).
These words contain God's command to the believer when he is reduced to great straits and brought into extraordinary difficulties. He cannot retreat; he cannot go forward; he is shut upon the right hand and on the left. What is he now to do?
The Master's word to him is "stand still." It will be well for him if, at such times, he listens only to his Master's word, for other and evil advisers come with their suggestions. Despair whispers, "Lie down and die; give it all up." But God would have us put on a cheerful courage, and even in our worst times, rejoice in His love and faithfulness.
Cowardice says, "Retreat; go back to the worldling's way of action; you cannot play the Christian's part; it is too difficult. Relinquish your principles."
But, however much Satan may urge this course upon you, you cannot follow it, if you are a child of God. His Divine fiat has bid thee go from strength to strength, and so thou shalt, and neither death nor hell shall turn thee from thy course. What if for a while thou art called to stand still; yet this is but to renew thy strength for some greater advance in due time.
Precipitancy cries, "Do something; stir yourself; to stand still and wait is sheer idleness." We must be doing something at once--we must do it, so we think--instead of looking to the Lord, who will not only do something, but will do everything.
Presumption boasts, "If the sea be before you, march into it, and expect a miracle." But faith listens neither to Presumption, nor to Despair, nor to Cowardice, nor to Precipitancy, but it hears God say, "Stand still," and immovable as a rock it stands.
"Stand still"--keep the posture of an upright man, ready for action, expecting further orders, cheerfully and patiently awaiting the directing voice; and it will not be long ere God shall say to you, as distinctly as Moses said it to the people of Israel, "Go forward.' --Spurgeon
"Be quiet! why this anxious heed
About thy tangled ways?
God knows them all. He giveth speed
And He allows delays.
'Tis good for thee to walk by faith
And not by sight.
Take it on trust a little while.
Soon shalt thou read the mystery aright
In the full sunshine of His smile."
In times of uncertainty, wait. Always, if you have any doubt, wait. Do not force yourself to any action. If you have a restraint in your spirit, wait until all is clear, and do not go against it.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to the command to 'stand still' - Understanding the context of extraordinary difficulties - The importance of listening to God's word
- II points: - The voices of despair and cowardice - The call to maintain courage and faith - Rejecting the temptation to retreat
- III points: - The dangers of precipitancy - The need for patience and waiting on God - Recognizing God's timing for action
- IV points: - The role of faith in standing still - The contrast between faith and presumption - The assurance of God's guidance
- V points: - Practical steps to take when feeling stuck - The significance of spiritual posture - Anticipating God's direction
Key Quotes
“Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.” — Charles E. Cowman
“Stand still--keep the posture of an upright man, ready for action, expecting further orders.” — Charles E. Cowman
“In times of uncertainty, wait.” — Charles E. Cowman
Application Points
- In moments of uncertainty, prioritize waiting for God's direction before taking action.
- Reject the voices of despair and cowardice by reaffirming your faith in God's promises.
- Maintain a posture of readiness and patience, trusting that God will lead you forward in due time.