For Israel, even today, the Exodus was not some distant historical footnote.
This event was the defining moment that made them a nation and the establishment of the Law.
In order to commemorate this final victory over the Egyptians, the Song of Moses eventually became a routine part of the temple services that took place every Shabbat.
It was divided into three stanzas with each stanza being chanted in rotation as the closing hymn of every Shabbat service.
The three stanza divisions are Exodus 15:2-5, 6-10, and 11-18.
The singing of this song reminded Israel of certain key points that are applicable to modern believers today.
First, this song points out that Israel will always be in the midst of hostile nations.
This has been true for Israel historically and is still true for them today.
I mean just take a look at Israel on any map.
Their country is a tiny dot surrounded by enemy nations whose sole purpose is exterminate the Jewish State.
Second, in spite of being surrounded by enemies, the Song of Moses assures Israel that HASHEM will be there to protect them.
Although there were periods of harsh judgement, from the wilderness wandering years to the entering of the Promised Land to this present day, we can see God’s supernatural hand guiding and protecting Israel.
Third, note the verse “Adonai will reign forever and ever”.
Just as God delivered them from Egypt, the Jewish people have always fervently held on to their faith that HASHEM will deliver them yet again from the hands of their future enemies.
So point-by-point, these same points can be applied to the modern believer.
Just as Israel was and is surrounded by hostile nations, as a believer living in a world given over to evil, is not our situation the same?
It can be a real struggle living a holy life pleasing to God in a day and age when evils such as abortion and homosexual marriage have been legalized and the media makes out believers to be ignorant simpletons whose behaviors and attitudes need to be kept in check.
Yet just as God promised Israel, the modern believer is ASSURED victory on a day-to-day basis if we will but faithfully and prayerfully surrender our wills to the will of HASHEM.
Finally, the simple truth is that the Jewish people today were and are still looking for the same final victory that the church is hoping for today.
Israel is also waiting for the Messiah to come and deliver them.
The primary issue is whether He has been here once before or is coming for the first time.
Thank you so many insights! I started reading from the beginning of Genesis. YHVH has been leading me piece by piece into a greater fellowship with Him. I have been saved since I was about 6 or 7 years old. I grew up going to church and attending a Christian school. I have “always” believed in the miracles that the Father performed for Israel. But, as I was taught, I thought I didn’t have to obey the laws of the Torah. Even in the midst of my most sinful period in life, I would always beg for God’s protection. And He always saved me from my own retched behaviors. I have been convicted by the Holy Spirit and blessed to understand that I do need to follow the laws. I am hosting our first ever Rosh Hashanah dinner at my church. My pastor agrees that we should be observant regarding the Appointed Times. I have stopped eating pork and have ordered my mezuzahs for the house. I am slowly learning the laws and trying to follow them. Getting Shabbat down will be next hurdle. Thank you so much for your words that are helping the Lord to mold me into what He wants me to be. May He bless you richly for helping others to see what He wants us to do.
Hallelujah Lorna, Thanks for your warm words and message. May Hashem continue to bless and lead you as you sincerely seek to do His Will in your life. Shalom.
Hi Lorna,
My Testimony is the same as yours. I am delighted to empty my greco-roman theology and refill my soul with the Torah Lifestyle.
I kept my personal Sabbaths now and trying to learn Kosher dieting routines.
May God help me find a Synagogue in a predominantly Christian World!