When God Says “Be Still” Instead of “Do Something”

We’ve all been there – facing a challenge that seems impossible to overcome. Maybe you’re stuck in a difficult situation right now, or perhaps you know someone who is. Our natural instinct, and the advice we often give others, is “Don’t just stand there, do something!” But what if God’s message is exactly the opposite?

What Does It Mean to “Stand Still” When Facing Obstacles?

The story of the Israelites at the Red Sea offers a powerful lesson about trusting God in impossible circumstances. After leaving Egypt, the Israelites found themselves trapped between Pharaoh’s approaching army and the Red Sea. Their situation seemed hopeless, and their response was understandably human – panic and complaint.

But Moses delivered a message that goes against our natural instincts: “Don’t be afraid. Stand still and see what the Lord will do to save you today.”

Why Did God Want the Israelites to Camp by the Red Sea?

God specifically instructed Moses to have the Israelites set up camp facing the sea. This wasn’t poor planning – it was intentional. God told Moses that this would cause Pharaoh to pursue them, and through what happened next, both the Israelites and the Egyptians would know that He is Lord.

Sometimes God places us in situations where we feel trapped not because He’s abandoned us, but because He wants to demonstrate His power and faithfulness in our lives.

How Do We Respond When We Feel Trapped?

The Israelites’ response reveals our common human tendency when facing overwhelming challenges. They complained to Moses, saying, “Were there not enough graves in Egypt that you brought us out here to die in the desert?”

Their fear caused them to romanticize their past slavery and question God’s plan for their freedom. How often do we do the same thing – looking back at familiar but unhealthy situations when God is trying to lead us somewhere better?

What Does “The Lord Will Fight for You” Really Mean?

When Moses told the people “The Lord is fighting for you, so be still,” he wasn’t encouraging passivity. This kind of “standing still” is active waiting – a time of:

• Prayer and seeking God’s guidance
• Meditation on His character and past faithfulness
• Fellowship with other believers
• Discernment about His will

It’s trusting that God sees the whole picture when we can only see the immediate obstacle. In essence this is the true meaning of patience: giving God time to work.

What Happened When the Israelites Trusted God?

The familiar story unfolds with God’s miraculous intervention. Moses raised his staff, the waters parted, and the Israelites crossed on dry ground. Even the pillar of cloud that had been leading them moved behind them to create a barrier between them and the Egyptian army.

As the Egyptians pursued and became stuck in the mud, they made a remarkable declaration: “The Lord is fighting for them and he is against us.” God’s purpose was fulfilled – even the Egyptians acknowledged His lordship.

Why Does God Sometimes Work This Way?

God’s concern wasn’t just for the Israelites to escape, but for both the Israelites and Egyptians to recognize His power and authority. When we face our “Red Sea moments,” God often uses these situations to:

• Strengthen our faith and trust in Him
• Demonstrate His faithfulness to others watching our situation
• Show that He can make a way where there seems to be no way

How Should We Apply This to Modern Challenges?

Our faith tells us that the obstacles we face are like that Red Sea. Sometimes we have challenges in front of us and pressures behind us, feeling completely trapped. But God’s message remains the same: “Stand still and see what the Lord will do to save you.”

This doesn’t mean God will always part literal seas, but He will provide a way through our circumstances that demonstrates His power and love.

Life Application

This week, instead of frantically trying to solve every problem through your own effort, practice the discipline of “standing still” before God. When you face a challenge – whether big or small – take time to pray, meditate on God’s character, and wait for His guidance before rushing into action.

Consider these questions as you apply this lesson:

• What “Red Sea” situation are you currently facing where you feel trapped between obstacles?
• How might God be wanting to demonstrate His faithfulness through your current challenges?
• Are you trusting in your own ability to “do something” rather than waiting to see what God will do
• What would it look like for you to actively wait on God this week instead of trying to solve everything yourself?

Remember, when God says “be still,” He’s not asking you to be passive – He’s inviting you to trust Him actively while He fights your battles. Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is stand still and watch God work.

Sermon video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CrhcanAqN0

[Blog post created by Sermon Shots from original sermon content preached by Rev. Kent F. Jackson on November 16, 2025.]