1446 B.C. ~ The nation of Israel is sandwiched between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army. Their response? Terror, panic, and anger. Clearly, they were doomed … until God intervened and split the sea, allowing them to escape across dry ground! Three days later they faced what they viewed as a drinking water crisis and the following month, a food crisis. Israel’s reaction to each challenge was panic. If God had given Israel the Red Sea test again, they probably would have fared better.

Typically, the tests of faith we experience vary, but sometimes, we face the same challenge repeatedly until we pass the test. We haughtily view Israel’s lack of faith, but most likely follow a similar pattern. Increasing stress builds until at the panic point, we implode or explode without a thought given to the One who could intervene for us.

James 1:3 says “…the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” As believers, we will be tested. When we find ourselves at the panic point, when we see no way out and no sensible answer, may we remember that we have a God who is working on our behalf, who has good plans for us, and who can make a way. Instead of panicking in the face of difficulty, let’s ‘press pause’, pray for His peace, and persevere.