READ EXODUS 13
At times, God may request us to perform actions that are difficult to comprehend. Particularly in the Old Testament, we often encounter directives that can be perplexing. For example, in this passage, God instructs the Israelites to abstain from consuming yeast for seven days. Why does God have a problem with yeast? In reality, this directive has little to do with yeast itself. Instead, it aims to underscore our innate inclination to forget. Understanding that humans are forgetful by nature (remember Pharaoh in chapter 9?), God uses such commands to jolt us into awareness. Yeast was such a fundamental element of their diets that avoiding it would have caused a disruption.
In this instance, God utilizes a modification in their diet and the offering of an animal to serve as a consistent reminder of His faithfulness. He foresaw that without intentional reminders, the Israelites might overlook His actions and neglect to pass down these stories to future generations. These directives primarily functioned as prompts to reflect on the benevolence of God. Similarly, we are susceptible to overlooking the faithfulness of Jesus in our lives.
Without setting up deliberate reminders, we risk forgetting His goodness. His instructions serve the same purpose as they did in Exodus 13. When we live in contrast to societal norms, people will inquire about the reasons behind our behavior. This provides us with opportunities to share our experiences with our children, neighbors, and colleagues, saying, 'Allow me to recount what God has done for me…'
As the narrative progresses in the days ahead, the story will delve into deeper dramatic events. Despite the Israelites' journey and Pharaoh's vacillating decisions, God's faithfulness never wavers.
QUESTIONS
1. How do you think you would have reacted upon receiving these instructions from God?
2. In verse 17, God said that if they encounter conflict, they may have second thoughts and want to go back to Egypt. How strong is your determination in challenging situations? Do you maintain faith in God even when faced with difficulties?
3. What are some measures you can implement in your life that may act as cues for God's loyalty and trustworthiness toward you?