“Now Joseph and all his brothers and all that generation died, but the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful; they multiplied greatly, increased in numbers and became so numerous that the land was filled with them. Then a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing, came to power in Egypt. ‘Look,’ he said to his people, ‘the Israelites have become far too numerous for us. Come, we must deal shrewdly with them or they will become even more numerous and, if war breaks out, will join our enemies, fight against us and leave the country.’”
– Exodus 1:6-9
Since Moses chose a life of meaning over one of happiness, there is much we can learn from him about what it looks like to be a follower of the Lord; however, today, I want to recall a few of the events that preceded his birth. Moses was born into a world dominated by the Egyptians. It all goes back to Joseph, who was Jacob’s son, and was sold into slavery by his brothers because they were jealous of his favor with their father. A long journey led Joseph to a prison in Egypt where he gained the attention of Pharaoh, and after interpreting his dream, was elevated to a place of power and influence in the land. Since Joseph married and had a family in Egypt, a large Hebrew population developed in that nation. However, as generations went by and Joseph died and the Pharaoh who knew him died, there arose to power a new Pharaoh who saw the Israelites as a threat. Tension began to smolder between the two groups when Pharaoh saw how the Hebrews were growing in number; he became fearful that they would overthrow the Egyptians and take their land from them. As his paranoia took hold, he passed unjust laws and decrees that pressed down the Jewish people, and they ultimately ended up as slaves in chains. Interestingly, the more he suppressed them, the more they continued to thrive and grow! Friend, nothing can stop the power and favor of God in your life! Like the Israelites, you may be pressed down on all sides, but the Lord will continue His work on your behalf. Even if you are oppressed by the forces of darkness and evil in this world, He has not forgotten you. There may be a season of suffering, but your loving Savior will come to lead you out of bondage and into the Promised Land. Stand strong, trust Him day-by-day, and never lose hope in His character, because He who promised is faithful! |
Prayer
I am thankful, Jesus, that no circumstance in my life can limit your overcoming power. I pray for strength and grace to hold on in the hard times, until you come and lead me to the Promised Land.
Reflection
How has God shown Himself faithful in a suffering season of your life?
One Response
YES and often too! Focus on what’s right and be thankful for all of it!
Joe Gee, your hair is a different color than your grandfather…. Do you dye it???
Have fun.
Joe