Stand Firm and Trust

Exodus 14:1-31

The Big Idea

When we feel afraid, we can remember that the LORD is able to rescue and help His people.

The Bible Story

Crossing the Red Sea

Exodus 14:13-14 records Moses speaking to the Israelites when they are afraid near the Red Sea. He tells them not to be afraid, to stand firm, and to see the LORD’s salvation. Moses says that the LORD will fight for them and that they should be still. This moment comes as Pharaoh and his army pursue Israel. The wider account continues with the LORD dividing the sea so Israel can cross on dry ground. The Israelites pass between walls of water, while the pursuing Egyptians are stopped when the waters return. The LORD rescues Israel, and the people later fear the LORD and trust the LORD and Moses.

Themes

God’s rescue of Israel Israel’s deliverance from Egypt The LORD’s power over the sea The stopping and judgment of the pursuing Egyptian forces Trust and fear in crisis

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Moses faces the worried Israelites near the Red Sea, holding his staff and reassuring them to stand firm and see the LORD’s salvation. The people may be shown listening together with varied expressions of concern and hope.

Talk together

Talk about it

How were the Israelites feeling near the Red Sea?
What did Moses tell them to do?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to help children notice the difference between fear and trust. Invite them to retell the moment in order: Israel sees danger, Moses speaks, and the LORD brings rescue. Keep discussion focused on the supplied passage and use gentle, non-graphic language when describing the Egyptians’ defeat.

Source note