사귐의 소리 2025

<사귐의 소리> 블로그 사용 방법

Exodus 15:19–21 “Hallelujah!”

—

3–4 minutes

Exodus 15:19-21 NIV

Suggested Praise Songs:

Resources for Family Worship (with Children):

Explanation:

Verse 19 provides a summary of the events that occurred at the Red Sea. After the Israelites had all crossed the sea and the Egyptian army had been completely drowned, Miriam—the prophet and sister of Aaron—led the women in playing tambourines and dancing (v. 20). It was customary for Israelite women to come out with instruments and dance to welcome back men returning victorious from battle (cf. 1 Samuel 18:6–7). Miriam was first introduced in the story of Moses’ birth as “his sister” (Exodus 2:4), and here her name is revealed as Miriam. She is called a “prophet” likely because she was recognized as having received the Holy Spirit.

Miriam’s song appears in our translation as two sentences (v. 21), but in content it closely mirrors the first verse of the earlier song. Many scholars believe that Miriam originally sang the entire earlier song. Over time, it may have been attributed to Moses to give it more authority, leaving only one verse to Miriam. That may be so, but if the women were dancing and singing along with Miriam, then even just these two lines would have been enough. The spirit and message of the preceding song are fully captured in this single verse.

The song was likely performed in a call-and-response format, with Miriam leading, saying, “For he is highly exalted; both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea,” and the other women responding, “Sing to the Lord!”

Meditation:

Words are an expression of the heart. But we don’t always need many words to express what we feel. Sometimes, a single word is enough. There are even times when words become useless. When facing someone who has experienced a great tragedy, no words come to mind. In such moments, a tearful gaze and holding their hand may be more than enough. Similarly, when something overwhelmingly joyful happens, we may find ourselves at a loss for words, struck silent by gratitude and awe. In those times, simply saying “Thank you” is enough.

That is why believers often express their hearts with the word “Hallelujah!” The Hebrew “Hallelujah” and the Greek “Alleluia” both mean “Praise the Lord.” Everything Moses said earlier can be seen as an extended version of that single word: “Hallelujah.” After crossing the Red Sea as if walking on dry land and being completely freed from Egypt, the only thing left to say before God was, “Hallelujah!”

Prayer:

Hallelujah! We praise You, Lord. Be exalted, O Lord. May You be lifted high through our thoughts, words, and actions. Please reign over us today so that all we do brings glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Discussion Questions for Children & Youth:

Key Point: Sometimes the best way to respond to God’s love and power is to say, “Hallelujah!” When God helps us, protects us, or gives us joy, we don’t need fancy words. A thankful heart that praises God, just like Miriam and the women with their tambourines, is all that is needed.

  • For Preschool-Elementary
    • Have you ever felt so happy or thankful that you didn’t know what to say? What did you do?
    • What do you think “Hallelujah” means? When is a good time to say it?
    • If you could play an instrument or dance like Miriam to praise God, what would you do?
  • For Youth
    • Why do you think people sometimes use just one word, like “Hallelujah,” to express something very deep?
    • Can silence or simple words be a form of worship? Why or why not?
    • How do you personally express thanks or joy to God, especially when it’s hard to put into words?

Leave a comment