SERMON NOTES WITH APPLICATION - “SO THEY WILL KNOW” - Exodus 14:1-9

Series Theme: I Got It

“SO THEY WILL KNOW”

Exodus 14:1–9 (KJV)General Theme: Hidden MannaFollows: I’ve Been Released Pt. II

🌅 BIG IDEA

God sometimes positions His people in places that don’t make sense — not to trap them, but to train them, display His glory, and prove His faithfulness.Israel is backed up against the Red Sea with Pharaoh closing in, but this moment isn’t about their fear — it’s about God showing everyone, friend and foe: “I AM the Lord.”Your assignment isn’t accidental. Your opposition isn’t random. And your enemies aren’t wasted.Everything you’re facing is setting the stage so they will know who God is in your life.

1️⃣ YOUR ASSIGNMENT IS GOD POSITIONING YOU (vv. 1–4)

God tells Israel exactly where to camp — in a tight, uncomfortable spot between the wilderness and the sea.God sets them up in a place where, to the enemy, they look trapped.But they’re not trapped — they’re strategically placed for God’s glory.

Truth: Some situations feel like you’re stuck, but God placed you there on purpose. He positions you to reveal Himself through you.

For Christians: Stop panicking over places God put you. If He led you there, He’ll lead you through it.For Seekers / Non-Christians: Sometimes life backs you into corners so you can finally see the bigger picture — and the God who’s been with you all along.

💡 Practical Application

• When you feel stuck, ask: “God, what are You positioning me for?”

• Don’t mistake discomfort for disfavor — God does His best work in tight places.

• Look for God’s fingerprints before you assume failure.

“Positioning doesn’t always feel good — but it’s always purposeful.”

2️⃣ YOUR HATERS REVEAL YOUR VALUE (vv. 5–8)

Pharaoh changes his mind and chases Israel with 600 elite chariots.Why? Because he suddenly realizes what he lost — their value.Your enemies pursue you because you matter. Your presence has impact.

Truth: The intensity of the attack is often a sign of the importance of your assignment.Your value triggers attention — even from people who don’t like you.

For Christians: Spiritual opposition isn’t proof you’re failing — it’s proof you’re essential.For Seekers / Non-Christians: When life seems to keep hitting you hard, it may be because you carry more potential than you realize.

💡 Practical Application

• Stop giving energy to people who only recognize your value once you’re gone.

• Expect resistance when you're moving in purpose — and move anyway.

• Don’t let people who want you “back in bondage” determine where you go next.

“If they’re chasing you, it’s because you’re worth the chase.”

3️⃣ YOUR ENEMIES BECOME YOUR FOOTSTOOL(v. 9)

The Egyptians pursue Israel until they catch up…but the enemy’s position becomes the stage for God’s power.Pharaoh thinks he has Israel right where he wants them — but God has him exactly where He wants him.

In Scripture, a footstool symbolizes complete victory — an enemy placed under your feet, powerless and subdued.

Truth: God will use the very people and problems chasing you as the platform for your testimony.What was designed to break you becomes the evidence of God’s authority.

For Christians: Don’t fear the enemy you can see — God is already working behind the scenes.For Seekers / Non-Christians: Your challenges can become stepping stones, not stumbling blocks.

💡 Practical Application

• Stop running from what God is planning to place under your feet.

• When the pressure rises, expect God’s power to rise with it.

• Start seeing your adversities as future altars of victory.

“Your footstool is being built by the things that once frightened you.”

✨ TAKEAWAY

This moment by the sea teaches us:

• You're positioned on purpose,

• You're pursued because you're valuable,

• And you're protected because God is greater.

Everything you face is an opportunity for God to show Himself strong so they will know —your enemies, your family, your community, your own soul —that He is the Lord.

You’re not stuck — you’re staged.You’re not attacked — you’re anointed.You’re not overwhelmed — you’re being set up for a testimony.

And when you see it clearly, you'll say with boldness: “I GOT IT.”

🔑 THEMES

I Got It

Understanding comes when you realize God’s positioning is intentional.

Hidden Manna

The nourishment for your faith is often hidden inside the pressure you're facing.