SMALL GROUP GUIDE
No Turning Back: “Waters Part: God Makes a Way”
Scripture Focus: Exodus 12-15
ICEBREAKER
What’s a time you moved forward even though you didn’t see the whole path in front of you?
OR
When you’re facing uncertainty in life, how do you usually respond (Ex: Move forward, turn back to what’s comfortable, freeze in fear, wait on God, etc.)?
INTRODUCTION
The journey out of Egypt was not just about physical freedom—it was about learning how to trust God one step at a time. As Israel moves from slavery to salvation, they encounter fear, uncertainty, and impossibility. Yet again and again, God proves He is faithful to lead, fight, rescue, and sustain His people.
This passage reminds us that following God often means leaving what’s familiar, trusting Him in places we don’t understand, and learning to worship Him not just for what He’s done—but for who He is.
INTO THE WORD
Read Exodus 13:17-22, Proverbs 3:5-6, and Isaiah 55:8-9. Why do you think God intentionally led Israel on a longer, more difficult route? What does this passage reveal about God’s priorities for His people?
Read Exodus 14:5-14, Psalm 46:10, and Romans 8:31. What fears surface for the Israelites when they see the Egyptian army approaching? What does it look like practically to “stand firm” instead of striving?
Read Exodus 15:1–11, Psalm 106:1-2, and Revelation 15:1-3. Why do you think worship immediately follows deliverance in this chapter? How does remembering what God has done fuel our faith moving forward?
EMBRACE AND EMBODY
The journey from Egypt to the Promised Land wasn’t just about a change in location—it was about a change of heart. God proved Himself stronger than Israel’s past, greater than their obstacles, and faithful to provide their future. The same God who parts seas still makes a way today. Following Jesus often requires leaving something behind—but we never walk forward alone.
Discuss the following questions as a group:
• What obstacle in your life feels impossible right now?
• How might God be inviting you to trust, rest, or worship instead of control?
OPTIONAL GROUP PRAYER:
Invite the group to silently pray about a situation where they need God to part the waters. After a few moments, read Exodus 14:14 aloud as a shared encouragement and declaration.
TAKE YOUR NEXT RIGHT STEP
(Prayerfully consider one of the following potential next steps)
• Seek God Daily: Choose each day to trust God and focus on His faithfulness, not your circumstances.
• Serve Others: Take time to pray for and encourage someone while they wait on God.
• Make God Known: Share a story of how God has come through in your life and what you learned about God during the journey.
• Worship God: Make a list of ways God has led, rescued or sustained you, then praise Him for His provision.
CLOSING PRAYER
Father, we praise You because You are unmatched—majestic in holiness and awesome in glorious deeds. Throughout history You have proven You are faithful and trustworthy. As we face obstacles in our lives that cause fear and uncertainty, help us to trust in You, rest in Your presence, and respond with worship. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
