📅 February 1: Exodus 5, 6 - Persistence in the Midst of Trials

[aignitescripture]

February 1: Exodus 5, 6 - Persistence in the Midst of Trials

Introduction

As we step into Exodus 5 and 6, we see Moses and Aaron’s first attempt to free the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, only to be met with increased hardship. Yet, in the midst of this disheartening situation, the Lord reassures, promising deliverance and renewing His covenant.

Exodus 5: Unfulfilled Expectations

Here, Moses and Aaron present God’s message only to be met with scorn from Pharaoh. Pharaoh increases the Israelites’ workload, creating more suffering and leaving the Israelites disheartened and Moses questioning God.
“Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Why, Lord, why have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me?” (Exodus 5:22)

Exodus 6: The Assurance of Deliverance

In a powerful response, God reassures Moses, renewing His promise of deliverance and reminding them of the covenant made with their forefathers.
“Then the Lord said to Moses, “Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh. He will let them go because of my mighty hand.” (Exodus 6:1)

Key Themes and Reflections

The narrative unveils two major themes - Divine Assurance and Human Doubt. Through God’s repeated promises, we understand the significance of trusting in His unfailing word. This sharply contrasts with the Israelites’ wavering faith and Moses’s questioning. It serves as a reminder that faith is a journey, not a one-time decision and even the chosen ones, like Moses, can falter.

Today’s Application

As followers of Christ, we’re bound to face trials that may lead to questions and doubts. But like Moses, let us remember that doubts are opportunities for deeper faith upon reassurance. May we hold on to God’s promises, confident that His word will never return void.

Hidden Gem

Here’s a nugget to ponder over: Notice how God reveals to Moses “I am the LORD” (Exodus 6:2). Known as the Tetragrammaton, this name holds immense significance, representing God’s eternal nature and His active presence.

Reflective Q&A

Why did Moses question God after facing disappointment?
A: Like us, Moses was human and vulnerable to doubt in the face of trials. His reaction is a reminder of our human tendency to waver when our expectations are not met.

What can we learn from God’s response to Moses’s doubts?
A: God’s response to Moses is filled with mercy and patience, truly portraying His loving heart towards His people. It reminds us that God’s promises are trustworthy, even when circumstances suggest otherwise.

How does Exodus 5, 6 apply to our lives today?
A: This narrative encourages us to persist in faith even amidst trials. It teaches us that when facing difficult circumstances, we should lean on God’s promises rather than be swayed by our transient feelings.

Join the Discussion

What challenging situation has shaken your faith recently? How were you reassured of God’s promises? Share your reflections and insights with us.

See You Tomorrow in Exodus 7, 8: The Power of the LORD
As we journey ahead, we will witness the first encounters of Pharaoh with the mighty hand of God through His plagues. Let’s continue to be open-hearted to His word, persistent in faith, and renew our trust in His promises.

[MAI]

Exodus 5,6
The contest between Pharaoh and Moses, the two great leaders of the two nations meet to seek a solution to the issue of the Jewish occupation. So the record reveals in ch. 5: THE MISSION PRESENTED: • [1] Moses interviews Pharaoh: vv. 1-4. • [2] Pharaoh increases Israel’s work: vv. 5-9. • [3] Israel’s oppression increased: vv. 10-14. • [4] Relief refused: vv. 15-19. • [5] Moses blamed: He pleads for Yahweh’s help: vv. 20-23. • Then chapter 6 reveals THE MISSION ACCOMPLISHED (ch. 6:1 to 12:36). Thus • [1] Yahweh Proclaims His intention to Deliver His people: vv. 1-8. • [2] Moses and the People are discouraged by Opposition: vv. 9-13. • [3] Genealogy of Aaron and Moses: vv. 14-27. • [4] Yahweh confers authority on Moses to stand before Pharaoh: vv. 28-30. • Notice the attitude of the Gentile mind as Pharaoh endeavoured to counter the work of Yahweh. He spoke of “vain words” (ch. 5:9). This is the description Pharaoh gave to the revelation of Yahweh through Moses. It is the way in which flesh always deprecates the wisdom of God and the requirements of His Word. In chapter 6, the Name of Yahweh is declared in vv. 1-5. With men a name is merely a mark of difference. With the case of God, it is different. If the significance of His name is known, the understanding of a person in relation to Him will be affected. If God is known as Ammon, the main idea will be that He is a riddle and a mystery; if as Shaddai, that He is powerful and a succourer; if as Mazda that He is wise and bountiful; if as a God that He is good (as the English word “god” indicates). The various titles as El, Elohim, Adonai, Shaddai, Elyon and so on set forth His many and varied attributes and manifestations. But His Name of Yahweh exclusively pronounces His family intentions: to call out a son from Egypt, and to manifest His goodness and character in a family of His own choosing. Thus the name “Yahweh” announces that He will perform His will and Covenant and will reveal His attributes in sons of His choice. It is a Name of intention, of a covenant relationship with those of His choosing. Israel failed to manifest this honoured and precious Name, and therefore Yahweh’s arm was extended to provide a Son of His manifestation who would become an eternal father (Isa. 9:6), bringing many sons to glory. Ultimately, the contest between Yahshua (the greater Moses) and Pharaoh (the flesh) will be determined with Yahweh the Victor. — Logos.