When we find ourselves in a difficult place, it’s easy to wonder what God’s purposes are.

Pastor and author Robert Morgan has taken a familiar Old Testament account and provided us with 10 strategies for difficult times. He joins guest hosts Bill Arnold and George Fraser to talk about The Red Sea Rules, and reminds us The Same God Who Led You in Will Lead You Out.

Robert says these strategies can apply in every situation.

“For people battling cancer, for people who are in between jobs, facing financial stress – it’s like the Israelites being trapped by the Red Sea. They didn’t want to be there but the LORD knows how to make a way.”

Highlight – Why do we suffer?

The Red Sea Rules

The 10 strategies for difficult times:

1. Realize that God means for you to be where you are.
God instructed Moses to speak to the people and have them camp near the Red Sea; they were boxed in, but God would use it for His purposes and to display His ultimate power and might to the Egyptians.

2. Be more concerned for God’s glory than for your relief.
“The Israelites were panicked, because they couldn’t go forward or back up. But the LORD said, ‘Don’t be afraid, I will gain glory for Myself through this.’ We never face any situation in life for which the LORD has not given us a specific promise to face that problem.”

3. Acknowledge your enemy, but keep your eyes on the LORD.

4. Pray!

5. Stay calm and confident and give God time to work.
Rob points back to Exodus 14: “Do not be afraid; stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD… The LORD will fight for you, you need only to be still.”

6. When unsure, just take the next logical step by faith.

7. Envision God’s enveloping presence.

8. Trust God to deliver in His own unique way.

9. View your current crisis as a faith builder for the future.

10. Don’t forget to praise Him.
Why is praise so powerful in our suffering? Realizing that God’s love has not changed or been hindered by this trial brings us to a place of peace and rejoicing. Our steadfast God is still holding us and leading us through our Red Sea and He has deliverance on the other side. Trust Him, and keep walking.

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