Today we associate horses with cowboys, racing, and trail rides, but the horse most often appeared in the Bible in the context of war. Horses were essential to pull war chariots. The horse became synonymous with military might and could be viewed much like tanks are today. Psalm 20:7 summarizes this notion well: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” In fact, Israelite kings were forbidden to accumulate horses (Deut. 17:16) because they were to trust God in battle.

In Exodus 15:19–21, we read the triumphant conclusion of the Israelites’ escape from Egypt. Pharaoh’s army, with its horses and chariots, pursued the Israelites into the Red Sea. However, as the Israelites crossed on dry ground, God caused the waters to return, engulfing the Egyptians. This miraculous deliverance led to a spontaneous outburst of worship and praise from the Israelites.

Miriam, the prophetess and sister of Aaron, took a tambourine and led the women in a song of celebration: “Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea” (v. 21). This song, known as the Song of the Sea, highlights God’s sovereignty and power over earthly forces.

The horse and rider represent the might of Egypt, the most powerful nation of its time. These war horses were symbols of strength, speed, and military power. For the Israelites, who had been slaves for generations, the sight of Pharaoh’s army would have been terrifying. Yet, God demonstrated that no earthly power could stand against His will and His people. God is our deliverer. No matter how formidable the obstacles or enemies we face, God is greater.