By Matt Thompson

The story of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt is so familiar to many of us we may be tempted to skim over the words written in chapter 15. God received glory as words of praise from his people filled the air. They sang about his faithfulness, his deliverance, and how he is their great warrior. They sang in unity—with one heart—during the exodus from Egypt. The praise, dancing, and singing erupted again when Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and men were consumed by the sea. 

The Cost of Disobedience

Then it happened. It was inevitable. Three days into the hot desert without water. The songs of praise ceased. They stopped to drink and the water was bitter. They grumbled. Moses called to God and God purified the water. 

As they drank the fresh water, God gave them a law. All they had to do was listen to his voice and do what is right in his eyes and he would protect them from the illnesses the Egyptians had faced. Ultimately, the Israelites did not hold up their end of the bargain.

The Promise of Blessing

How do you face your trials—your waterless days in the desert? How will you face the “three-day waterless heat?” At times you may find yourself sitting beside bitter water; but you don’t have to stay there. If you persevere in those moments, you will enjoy the sweet water he has waiting for you. 

James 1:2, 3 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

May we sing praises in the midst of deliverance and moments of uncertainty.

Matt Thompson ministers with the Geneva Church of Christ in Geneva, Ohio. He and his wife Angel have two children: Joshua and Faith.