The Israelites' response to the Exodus was a complex mix of immediate emotions and long-lasting traditions. Initially, they reacted to God's miraculous deliverance with joy and singing, celebrating their newfound freedom. However, the historical accounts also reveal that this initial elation was not sustained throughout the Exodus journey itself, as they demonstrated forgetfulness of God's steadfast love and even rebellion at the Red Sea.

Over time, the Exodus became a cornerstone of their identity and worship. Centuries later, figures like King David reflected on this pivotal event with humble amazement and profound thankfulness for God's mercy. The Exodus became a central theme in their worship, particularly in the Psalms, which served as celebrations and reminders of God's power and grace. Importantly, the Israelites came to recognize that their deliverance was not due to their own righteousness but was an act of God's undeserved grace, especially in light of their sinfulness and rebellion.

This understanding of God's grace fueled a deep sense of gratitude and awe, shaping centuries of joyful, worshiping responses that extended throughout the Old Testament and beyond. Even a thousand years later, during the time of Nehemiah, the remembrance of the Exodus was marked by both confession of national sins and thankfulness for God's enduring mercies. The Exodus served as a constant reminder of God's saving power and his gracious character, profoundly influencing Israel's faith and practices.

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