GOD TAKES SIDES

READING: EXODUS 14:10-20

Verse 20: “So it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel. Thus it was a cloud and darkness to the one, and it gave light by night to the other...”

Exodus 13 and 14 describe how God used pillars of cloud and fire to lead the Israelites following their departure from Egypt. As the Egyptian army pursued the people of God, the pillar moved to a position between the Israelites and their pursuers. At that time the cloud caused darkness to the Egyptians on one side, while it gave light to the Israelite camp on the other side. The two sides of the cloud had opposite qualities at the same time. What was beneficial to the Israelites, was made to work against the Egyptians. As people approach the Lord with their desires, His responses are somewhat like that cloud. Those who oppose Him receive one response that is different from those who honor Him. There are verses of scripture that illustrate each. Regarding those who oppose the Lord, Proverbs 10:3 says “...He casts away the desires of the wicked.” They cannot expect to receive favor regarding their desires. Those who respect God will be able to experience Him as in Proverbs 10:24 that says “...the desire of the righteous will be granted.” They will experience His goodness. Every person can get one side or the other. We must all seriously consider whether we will respond in the manner that causes our desires to be cast away, or in the way that causes them to be granted. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. What behaviors get the 10:24 response?

2. How can a person change from a 10:3 to a 10:24 response from God?