B’shalach means, “when he let go.” The study refers to Pharaoh, who finally releases Israel so that they can leave the chains of slavery. But what will happen to Israel when they leave their land of bondage? Will they (you) be able to accept freedom? Will they (you) be able to walk in faith towards a new way of living; or will they (you) accept a chain of false belief?
Chains of addiction, sin, and world influence are bondage. Many of us are bound to patterns of sin, which at first glance may seem impossible to leave. Like the Israelites, slavery had become an accustomed state of being. Captors have convinced the masses that we cannot break our chains to claim freedom. So, we comply and accept our captivity.
But there is hope. It is in the Name of the Living God, who puts forth His mighty hand to redeem us. He knows our heart and what we can endure. The study of B’shalach clearly demonstrates thoughtful action from YHWH, when He directs Israel away from Egypt, choosing a longer route over a shorter one. “Yah did not lead them by the way of the land of the Philistines even though it was near; for He said,
“Lest the people change their minds when they see war, and they return to sin and bondage” (Ex. 13:17,18)
From this point forward, YHWH, leads the people with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. He “covers” His people when the “captor lets go” of his captives. This picture of grace is too tremendous to overlook. Surrounding nations would love to attack or take captive a vulnerable nation. But YHWH God protects Israel’s vulnerability to begin the process of faith and strength. He chooses a longer route so that Israel can come to know Him.
When we leave the bondage of sin, we are not typically ready for spiritual warfare. Israel was not ready for war, even though they saw the mighty works of Yah. So, the question begging to be asked: “When are we ready for warfare?” Are we willing to accept His “pillars” and start walking as He leads? Are we ready to endure trials in the wilderness in order to be strengthened, so we can battle the enemy?
Ok, so we go ahead and start walking in a new life. But, shortly after our escape, the chariots of sin start coming after us. Like Israel, we can see them. We can feel them. Panic sets in. We don’t want to die and we state, “Isn’t it better to just be who I am—a slave to sin?” But notice the words of Moses,
“Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today . . . the Lord will fight for you while you keep silent.” (Ex. 14:13-15)
Then YHWH Himself says to Moses, “. . . Tell the sons of Israel to go forward.” (Ex. 14:14,15)
Wow! Stop the fear. “Look up for our redemption draweth nigh.” It sounds very similar to the man who needed to look up to hear Yeshua’s voice, “Take up your bed and walk!” (Jn 5:8)
Is this the new learning curve to a life of freedom? I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be held back. I want to walk forward. From this Torah section, we find that the Lord not only breaks Israel’s bondage, but He sends their captors into confusion and utterly destroys them, so they can escape to freedom. No wonder Moses write a song. Shouldn’t we?
If you are stagnant in your “land of bondage”, make the first step. Stop living in fear and stand still. Ask for the Mighty Hand of Redemption to release you, then keep silent and watch what He does.
Be Blessed,
Rollyn