Exodus 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 up on 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)
