Remembering the God Who Saves

When Israel went out from Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of strange language, Judah became his sanctuary, Israel his dominion. – Psalm 114:1-2

Psalm 114 celebrates the mighty acts God did to deliver His people from slavery in Egypt to a life of freedom in the Promised Land. The psalm pictures their exodus from Egypt, the crossing of the Red Sea and Jordan River, and God’s presence at Sinai. These events are so extraordinary that the Psalmist describes the sea as fleeing, the Jordan turning back, and the mountains trembling at the presence of our Lord. By reminding us of these events, the psalm calls us to remember that Israel’s salvation was not the work of human strength, cleverness, or ingenuity. No, it was the work of the living God who rules over creation and delivers His people in His grace. The same God who redeemed Israel has accomplished an even greater salvation for us in Jesus Christ. He defeated sin and death and secured our redemption at the cross and empty tomb. Psalm 114, therefore, teaches us to look backward with thankful hearts as we worship the God whose saving works reveal His power, faithfulness, and covenant love. At the same time, our backward gaze emboldens our hearts with confidence, assuring us that He will indeed fulfill all of His promises. 

If you are like me, then this psalm is for you. Often, we are tempted to face our present difficulties and challenges as though our circumstances are greater than our God. But this psalm reminds us of what God has already done. He made the Red Sea flee and the Jordan River stand still. Likewise, He sustains His church, keeps His promises, and works all things according to His providence. When fear, uncertainty, suffering, or temptation confront us, we can look back upon God’s saving acts and trust Him with what lies ahead. Our Christian faith is strengthened by remembering that God has saved His people and continues to preserve us unto eternity. 

Additional Scripture Readings

• Exodus 14:10-31
• Romans 8:28-39

Questions for Reflection

1. What saving acts of God do you need to remember when facing your present circumstances? 
2. How does remembering God’s faithfulness in Christ strengthen your confidence in His providence today?