READ EXODUS 1
Exodus is a continuation of the Genesis storyline, where Genesis concludes with Joseph's descendants numbering seventy; Exodus begins with the same number. The chapter introduces us to the children of Israel who traveled to Egypt with Jacob, repeating previous information from Genesis 46:8 about Israel's journey. A new Pharaoh who did not know the God of their ancestors was now in power and saw the Israelites as a threat. He oppressed them through harsh labor in brick-making, construction, and agricultural work to prevent their growth in numbers. This treatment was ruthless and made their lives miserable.
Pharaoh devised a scheme to instruct the midwives to kill the firstborn Hebrew boys in the land. However, the midwives held a higher authority. They chose to fear God and disobey the king of Egypt's order; they allowed the boys to live (see verse 17). God rewarded their obedience, leading to a growth in the Hebrew population. The chapter concludes with Pharaoh's decree to drown every Hebrew boy in the Nile but spare the girls. This event foreshadows the continuation of the story in the following chapters, where God protects a Hebrew boy named Moses and guides him to deliver His people from Egyptian slavery.
The text conveys that the midwives had greater reverence for God than for Pharaoh. What does it mean to fear God? Proverbs 9:10 states that "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." Having fear of God entails obeying Him as the ultimate authority in our lives. We have the choice to either fear God or fear something else. Even though our choices may not seem as significant as those made in this passage, any decision made without considering God will result in negative consequences. Remember that we always have the option to obey God, as He is reliable, and His instructions are beneficial for us.
QUESTIONS
1. Why do you believe these women were able to decide to have faith in God despite Pharaoh's presence?
2. What is the significance of fearing God? What prevents you from fearing God?
3. Share a time when you prioritized fearing God over fearing people.