The Lord showed me this verse in the updated translation of the Amplified Bible when I needed it most. He has given me Exodus 14:14 many times over the years when I was tempted to open my mouth and use it to fight my own battles. In my current situation, the phrase, "keep silent and remain calm," fairly slapped me in the face. At the time, I had been contemplating defending myself, instead of waiting on God to defend me.

Years ago, I heard a very wise and godly man say that Christians lose more battles because they don't allow God to fight for them. I believe that the Lord's promise above bears this out. It assures us that if we would just "keep silent" - instead of saying something we'll regret later - and if we would simply "remain calm" - instead of losing our peace and doing something rash - we would witness God intervening on our behalf in a mighty way, and doing what only He can do.

I once heard someone say, "God is teaching you how to be silent in a frustrated season. The less you say, the more He moves! Stay silent!" The Lord knows that opening our mouths and saying the wrong thing can do irreparable harm to ourselves and our relationships. It's not always easy to remain silent, but doing so can bring great rewards.

If this message doesn't apply to you today, it undoubtedly will in the days to come. The next time you are in the midst of a battle of any kind, remember to "keep silent and remain calm" - and watch God win the victory for you!

Prayer: Lord, make me sensitive and obedient to Your Spirit's leading at all times, especially when I am tempted to fight my own battles. Guard me from doing or saying anything rash. Help me to calm myself down when I am upset. I can't do this without You. When someone offends me, help me to respond in a Christlike way. Comfort me as only You can. Thank You that as I follow Your lead in tense situations, You will fight for me and cause me to prevail!