Psalms 136:13
To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever:
Psalms 136:13
Verse 13 celebrates God dividing the Red Sea into parts—another Exodus sign—so that Israel could pass through safely while the pursuing army was overwhelmed. The act of parting the sea is a paradigmatic moment of salvation, symbolizing God’s deliverance from insurmountable danger. The refrain again anchors the mercy motif, keeping the focus on God’s gracious nature even in moments of peril.
This episode highlights God’s initiative in salvation history. It shows that God fights for the weak and provides a path through impossible obstacles. The mercy of God is not abstract; it is evidenced by concrete, historical acts that secure freedom and formation of a people. The psalm invites faith that God continues to part seas in the lives of believers today—creating paths through obstacles and leading to safety and new life.
Identify a “sea” in your life—an obstacle that seems impossible to cross. Trust God to part it, even if the path looks unlikely. Encourage others with testimonies of past deliverances and the ongoing mercy that makes a way when there seems to be none. In group settings, cultivate a culture of hopeful problem-solving—prayerful planning, collaborative effort, and patient trust in God’s leading.
Cross-References: Exodus 14:21-22; Psalm 77:16-20; Isaiah 43:16-19; 1 Corinthians 10:1-4