Morning, July 24, edited from Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening

“Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.” — Exodus 14:13

These words contain God’s command to the believer when he is subjected to great trouble and brought into extraordinary difficulties. He cannot retreat; he cannot go forward; he is blocked on the right hand and on the left; what is he now to do? The Master’s word to him is, “Stand still.” It will be well for him if at such times he listens only to his Master’s word, for other and evil advisers come with their suggestions. Despair whispers, “Lie down and die; give it all up.” But God would have us adopt cheerful courage, and even in our worst times, rejoice in his love and faithfulness. Cowardice says, “Retreat; go back to the world’s way of action; you cannot play the Christian’s part, it is too difficult. Relinquish your principles.” But, however much Satan may urge this course upon you, you cannot follow it if you are a child of God. His divine mandate has called you to go from strength to strength, and so you shall, and neither death nor hell shall turn you from your course. What, if for a while you are called to stand still, but this is only to renew your strength for some greater progress in due time. Hastiness cries, “Do something. Stir yourself; to stand still and wait, is sheer laziness.” We think we must be doing something at once — instead of looking to the Lord, who will not only do something but will do everything. Presumption boasts, “If the sea lies before you, march into it and expect a miracle.” But Faith listens neither to Presumption, nor to Despair, nor to Cowardice, nor to Hastiness, but it hears God say, “Stand still,” and immovable as a rock it stands. “Stand still.” Keep the posture of an upright man, ready for action, expecting further orders, cheerfully and patiently awaiting the directing voice; and it will not be long before God shall say to you, as distinctly as Moses said it to the people of Israel, “Go forward.”