READ EXODUS 5
By now, we are aware that the book of Exodus continues the story from Genesis, where God provided for Joseph's family of 70 in Egypt. Several generations later, millions of their descendants have fulfilled God's promise to multiply and populate the land. However, the current Pharaoh is concerned that this growing minority of slave laborers may rebel against their masters. The early chapters of Exodus outline the oppression of the Israelites, the birth and upbringing of Moses, his call to leadership, and his return to seek relief for his people with the elders' support.
In Exodus 5, Moses and Aaron demand that Pharaoh allow the Israelites to go and worship in the wilderness for three days, a significant request. Pharaoh, hardened in heart, refuses, questioning why he should let his labor force leave to worship a foreign God.
Instead of releasing them, he increases their workload by making them collect straw while still requiring them to deliver the same amount of bricks (vv 5-9). As the labor hours and punishments escalate (v 14), the Israelites confront their relentless taskmaster, holding Moses and Aaron accountable for provoking Pharaoh's wrath (v 21), leading Moses to accuse the Lord of negligence (v 22).
This episode illustrates how Moses questions divine providence, justice, and mercy in the face of oppression, even as a revered figure in our religious history. While plagues in the Old Testament are often viewed as judgments for wrongdoing, the concept of divine discipline as a means of restoring harmony is less frequently discussed. May we learn to trust in the Lord's guidance, wisdom, and timing.
QUESTIONS
1. Moses appears to doubt God's purpose for his life. How can we emulate Moses' lack of faith?
2. Have you witnessed God utilizing extremely challenging situations to strengthen obedience?
3. In what ways is God using your current circumstances to foster reliance on Him?