This verse resonated in my heart this morning. We often desire and seek deliverance in our own lives. It's a sign of growth. We become aware of a place that is keeping us from oneness with the Lord- a place of bondage. We yearn to be free and continue our journey to the promised land. But there is always something that stands in the way. Just like the Israelites- we have to cross a Red Sea.
The Lord's heart is always for our deliverance. And our great God, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever, tests us in the same way he tested His chosen people. He leads us through the waters. This should be a lesson we've learned well- one that no longer surprises us. The crossing is much longer than it looked from the shore. It's dark and cold at the bottom of the sea, and the towering walls of water loom large above. We question the wisdom of God. We don't see His hand- or His footsteps- and our strength to continue on is tested to the core.
As I was meditating on this verse, the Lord brought a sweet old hymn to my heart.
1. In shady, green pastures, so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along;
Where the water's cool flow bathes the weary one's feet,
God leads His dear children along.
2. Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.
3. Though sorrows befall us and Satan oppose,
God leads His dear children along;
Through grace we can conquer, defeat all our foes,
God leads His dear children along.
4. Away from the mire, and away from the clay,
God leads His dear children along;
Away up in glory, eternity's day,
God leads His dear children along.
Chorus:
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.
Our great God, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever, never stops leading us. Even when His footsteps are completely obliterated- He is there. Are you walking through a flood? Be encouraged. God is leading- and you will reach a far better shore.
