Exodus 14:25 – He made the wheels of their chariots come off so that they had difficulty driving. And the Egyptians said, "Let's get away from the Israelites! The Lord is fighting for them against Egypt." (NIV)

1 Chronicles 28:18b – He also gave him the plan for the chariot, that is, the cherubim of gold that spread their wings and shelter the ark of the covenant of the Lord. (NIV)

Recently, I watched an amazing, three-part documentary that makes a case for the discovery of what appears to be ancient chariot wheels at the bottom of the Red Sea. Interestingly, fossilized human and horse remains were also found. Underwater cameras have filmed numerous chariot-like objects encrusted in coral; the wheels have four, six, or eight spokes, which were used only during the 18th Dynasty, the time of Israel's exodus from Egypt. One particular wheel, unattached to coral, drew special attention, since the wood was overlaid with gold. Though it is very fragile, this unique finding remains untarnished by time.

Subsequently, while watching the movie "Solomon", I could not help but notice the presence of chariot wheels beneath the wings of the cherubim ornamenting the holy temple of the Lord. Reflecting on the mysterious image of these creatures, I turned to the Bible for better understanding. In most cases, they are associated with the throne of God; however, the wheels may also denote His power to come swiftly to our rescue in times of trouble.

These two different films, depicting two distinct chariots, presented some striking parallels and contrasts. In one setting, broken wheels scattered across the bottom of the Red Sea speak of the power of God; and in the temple, wheels of gold remind us of God's glory and grace. In one situation, an earthly power was brought down to the depths of the ocean; but in the other, behold a revelation of God's eternal throne. With these wonderful thoughts in mind, consider the following Scriptures:

Psalm 20:7 – Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. (NIV)

Psalm 68:17 – The chariots of God are tens of thousands and thousands of thousands; the Lord has come from Sinai into His sanctuary. (NIV)

Clearly, the Egyptian chariots which pursued Israel stand in stark contrast to the chariots of God — the guardians of His people. Under the Lord's command, their wheels will never be broken. So, in troublesome times, let us place our trust in Him; may His sanctuary be our refuge, and His name, our everlasting hope.

Prayer: Lord, we thank You for Your awesome power that led the children of Israel to freedom and safety. May they be an example to this afflicted generation which desperately needs Your love and deliverance. Defend the cause of all who seek refuge in Your sanctuary; rise, O Lord, and inhabit the praises of Your people, both now and forevermore. In Jesus' holy name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Lori Ciccanti <dlalsina@mchsi.com>
Ocean View, Delaware, USA
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