In Egypt, the children of Israel were under slavery at the hand of a cruel ruler who—much like Satan with us—did not care how much the people suffered so long as he got what he wanted out of them. Moses is raised up by the Lord to break the yoke of slavery and deliver the people from bondage. Yet how quickly we see the Israelites complaining and longing for their old life.

Shortly after leaving Egypt, they found themselves cornered with their enemy in hot pursuit. Their years of slavery were behind them, but it was not an easy path ahead. God was preparing them for the grueling journey that would require them to trust Him every step of the way (Ex. 13:17).

At the first sign of hardship, the people complained saying, “Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness?” (14:11). Their present circumstance was distracting them from two important things: their destination and their Defender. How quickly we fall victim to the same weakness. When we encounter trials, rather than strengthen ourselves in the hope that we have as Christians, and in the fact that Christ said, “I am with you always” (Mt. 28:20), we often hanker for the old life, with a convenient amnesia for its bitterness and bareness.

Trusting in the Lord is not a one-time lesson, but a lifelong experience. Let us allow the Lord to guide us on the path He has set before us, not complaining, but submitting ourselves to Him. And as He grants us victory, let us say like Israel did, “The Lord is my strength and song” (Ex. 15:2)!