"And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them: Ad it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night." (Exodus 14:19-20)

It never ceases to amaze me how the scriptures unfold as we read and reread and reread the Word of Truth. As many times as I have read this passage, it never occurred to me what is happening. Let me share with you my thoughts praying that God will use this to encourage you today.

The children of Israel had left Egypt and the enemy was pursuing them. The pillar of the cloud went before them leading them, guiding them, and giving them direction every step of the way. In the distance however, the enemy could be seen approaching and, no doubt, causing the people to be more than just a bit fearful.

Suddenly something strange happened. The cloud which had been before them to guide them and lead them suddenly moved behind them. The cloud blocked the enemy's view of God's people and offered protection from the ensuing armies. Not only did the cloud offer protection, it was a source of light to the camp of Israel but, on the other hand, when the enemy saw the cloud they saw nothing but darkness which hid the children of Israel from their view.

How glorious! Can you see this? The Lord stood between his people and their enemies. I have no doubt that this happens for us today more than we realize. How many times have we seen the Hand of God intervene in our situations and circumstances and protect us from disaster? How many times have we failed to recognize his intervention and failed to give him glory and praise for protecting us from our enemies. Oh, that we would open our eyes and be quick to see the Hand of God in our lives rather than focusing on our adverse conditions, situations, and enemies in pursuit!

Take some time today and consider the times that God has stepped between you and your enemies protecting you from danger or harm. Consider not only the major battles that have been won, but also consider the small victories you have realized day after day after day. There is no end to what God can do on your behalf.

The Lord said he would fight our battles for us. May we learn to stand still and see the salvation of our God every day of our lives.

Father, we come before you with humble hearts acknowledging that you are our protector, our shield, and our guide. Just as we have seen the cloud of your presence change its position from that of guide to shield and protector, we long to see that in our own lives! We acknowledge that we have failed too often to look for the cloud that is not only guiding us but also protecting us in the face of our enemies. Father forgive us for the many times we have failed to praise you for victory considering that no victory is too small to be considered praiseworthy! Teach us your ways and help us to see your hand guiding, leading, and protecting us throughout our days. I love you Lord, and I praise you for might and your awesome wonders! There is truly none like you and all the earth! Amen!

"For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go by flight: for the LORD will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rereward." (Isaiah 52:12)

© 2008 Jan Ross
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