Exodus - part 1

 Exodus 1-10  (These are my notes from my reading.)

 It seems sometimes that God has forgotten us, but He never will and He always has a plan.  He had told Abraham (Genesis 15:13) that Israel's slavery would happen, that the people would be oppressed.  But even in affliction, God blesses His people.  It isn't about our circumstances, but about Him, His plan, His will, and His way.  He allowed the oppression while at the same time preparing the people for freedom, for standing on their own as a nation.  When they were ready, God brought forth a leader.  Leaders are chosen by God not because of their eloquence and strength, but because of God's strength and His ability.  Human leaders are best when they let God lead.  God understands our fears.  He may get frustrated (seemingly), but really He is infinitely patient with us.  He gives those He calls whatever is needed to lead, to accomplish whatever He asks.  

 God has a plan and keeps His covenant.  Things are getting harder before they will get better for the Israelites, but God's plan of redemption is perfect.  We see a glimpse of this as He begins the process of redeeming Israel from Egypt.  His plan works His way for His glory.  He encourages and leads His people, even in the waiting time, even when labor gets harder and oppression gets worse before the are finally free.  This is a small taste of what happens for true salvation - Jesus, true freedom, eternal life, abundant life.  

 The progression of plagues show God's power (9:16), His might, and that He is Lord of all creation.  In the process, Egypt is destroyed and Israel is delivered.  The Egyptians each had a chance to be saved - if they believed God and obeyed Him (9:20-21).  God always gives people a chance to believe.  Note that the Israelites suffered with the Egyptians in the beginning, but then God set them apart and protected them.  


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