January 23, 2017: SOAP #2608:  Exodus 6-8; Luke 23

Scripture:  Exodus (NIV) 7:3 But I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and though I multiply my miraculous signs and wonders in Egypt, 4 he will not listen to you. Then I will lay my hand on Egypt and with mighty acts of judgment I will bring out my divisions, my people the Israelites.  5 And the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD when I stretch out my hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out of it.”

Observation:  God was preparing to bring Israel out of Egypt to the land He had promised them (Note: Exodus 6:4-8).  There were two nations that interested Him.  Of course, Israel was one.  But the other was Egypt.  The Egyptians were important to Him.  He wanted them to know His omnipotent power.  He was greater than the gods of the Egyptians.  When Israel left, the Bible tells us that some Egyptians accompanied them.

Application:  Many of the things I encounter in life have a dual purpose.  God is working in my life as my faith, patience, and endurance grow through the trials.  But God is also interested in those around me.  He wants them to see my faith as I hold steady in the troubled waters.  He wants them to see His deliverance in my life.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, you are at work in and through my life.  I want that all your purposes for today be realized in me.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!