Moment of Elation

    The emotion of elation is so intense that it expressed in an explosion.  It can cause some people to think you are on drugs or had a few too many drinks.  However, it is more powerful than any toxic thing you could put into your body.  Elation is a mood, so it only last a short amount of time, but when you are elated your happiness is contagious and powerful.

    The Hebrews were elated when they finally felt free.  God began opening the door to their freedom with the first plague.  He had given them complete freedom over a week ago, but it was just now being accepted.  There are so many people that have gotten their freedom that still live like they are in bondage.  The reality is that it can take some time to acknowledge and really believe you are free.

    Miriam, Moses' sister, wrote a song exalting God for giving them their freedom.  She played her tambourine and got the people to start dancing.  When you are in the state of elation it is important that you are allowed to express yourself in a healthy manner.  I can't imagine a better way than playing, singing, and dancing.  That day Miriam became the leader of the women's ministry.

   The state of elation was short lived though.  In three days they ran out of water as they were traveling in the desert.  It was not only uncomfortable, but dangerous.  In arid places you become dehydrated before you even realize it.  God let this happen to test them.  He wanted to prove He was still with them, but they were not looking for Him.  They wanted water, so the people began to grumble.  

    God showed Moses showed Moses how to provide refreshing water for the people.  God was with them.  He was not going to let them die of thirst.  He wants His people healthy.  He just wanted them to understand the importance of obedience to Him.  He led them to a little haven that had 12 springs and 70 palm trees.  They were able to camp to rest and refresh.

    It is wonderful to feel elated, but it is important to understand that it is only a mood.  Moods sway and change in a moment.  We have to control them, so they do not control us.  At the same time we need to allow ourselves to feel them.  God gave us moods to be indicators in our lives of what is happening around us.  If we stay focused on where we are with Him, then they stay in a healthy balance.

Exodus 15