Now the length of time the Israelite people lived in Egypt was 430 years. At the end of the 430 years, to the very day, all the LORD’s divisions left Egypt. (NIV) Exodus 12:40-41
Tomorrow in our “Read Through the Bible” program we begin reading the book of Exodus. As we read through the book, we will relive the story of Moses, the main character, and we will also see God laying the foundation for redemption, for His law, and worship. We’ll read about God’s nature – His attributes of justice, truthfulness, mercy, faithfulness, His sovereignty, and His holiness. The thread of God’s deliverance and salvation is woven throughout the book. And Exodus also teaches us how we should live. We learn from the successes and failures of Moses and others as we read about God’s ideals for Biblical ethics and morality.
In tomorrow’s reading (Exodus 1-2), God’s promise of increasing the Israelite population became a reality (1:1-7). But, the Israelites were soon out of favor with a new king who came to power in Egypt (1:8). Worried with the threat of the people turning against him, the Pharaoh began to oppress the Israelites, worked them ruthlessly, made their lives bitter, even murdered their children (1:22). The chosen people of God were being persecuted.
Are you being persecuted today? Is your life in danger? Are you being ridiculed for your faith? Ostracised for your commitment to God? Criticized for your beliefs? If so, don’t try to look for God’s purpose in the midst of your circumstances. Instead, ask God to help you see His perspective on your situation. Trust that God knows what He is doing and that He is working in and through you to accomplish His purposes!
God was faithful to the Israelites. He did not rescue them immediately (they were in slavery for 430 years – Exodus 12:40). But, He did bring His purposes to pass. God will be faithful to you today. He may not “rescue” you immediately from you circumstances, but He will carry you through and work His purposes out in your life.
Written by Marji “Mike” Kruger
