The book of Exodus is the second book written by Moses and its main theme is the deliverance of the children of Israel from the land of Egypt. It focuses on the fulfilment of God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to bring their descendants out of the land of captivity and bring them into the land which He had promised to Abraham – a land flowing with milk and honey.
Exodus 1 reveals the severe oppression the Israelites faced under the Egyptian Pharaoh, who feared their growing numbers. Despite the harsh conditions, God’s hand was evident as the Israelites continued to multiply and grow stronger. This teaches us that God’s plans cannot be thwarted by human opposition.
Exodus 2-3 introduces us to Moses, though born during a time of intense persecution of the Hebrews, who became an Egyptian prince by God’s will. God set him aside as a deliverer to lead the Israelites out of bondage. Moses’ encounter with God emphasizes that our deliverance comes not through our strength but through God’s power.
Similarly, in Matthew 15:29 to Matthew 16:12, we see Jesus performing miracles and warning His disciples to beware of false teachings. Just as Moses was called to lead Israel, Jesus guides us on a path away from spiritual deception, toward truth and freedom.
The journey from oppression to liberation is a testament to God’s unwavering faithfulness. Like the Israelites, we may face trials, but God hears our cries and prepares a way out. Let’s trust in His timing and provision, knowing that He is leading us from bondage to freedom.
Prayer: Lord, help me to trust in Your plan, even in difficult seasons. Lead me from oppression to the freedom You have promised.
Today’s reading
Exodus 1-3
These are the names of the sons of Israel who went to Egypt with Jacob, each with his family:
Reuben, Simeon, Levi and Judah;
Issachar, Zebulun and Benjamin;
Matthew 15: 29-16:12
Jesus departed from there, skirted the Sea of Galilee, and went up on the mountain and sat down there.
Then great multitudes came to Him, having with them the lame, blind, mute, maimed, and many others; and they laid them down at Jesus’ feet, and He healed them.
So the multitude marvelled when they saw the mute speaking, the maimed made whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing; and they glorified the God of Israel.