January 21, 2012 (Exodus 1-2; Psalm 88; Luke 21)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “We must make a plan to keep them from growing even more. If we don’t, and if war breaks out, they will join our enemies and fight against us. Then they will escape from the country.” Exodus 1:10 NLT
Observation: “What if” drove the Egyptians to make decisions that changed the face of Egypt. A new King came into power that knew nothing of the things Joseph had done in the past. The Israelites, (Jacob’s descendants) were forced into slavery after the death of Joseph. Because of the increase in number and successfulness of the Israelites they became a threat to the Egyptians. Pride and fear led the Egyptians to make ungodly decisions that affected the lives of many people.
Application: Pride and fear have the same effect on us today. We often find ourselves in distress worrying about what “could happen”, instead of abiding in faith and trusting God, “whatever happens”. Fear will cause us to feel helpless and hopeless. It can shake us up and rock our world. But a faith built on the foundation of Christ shall not be moved!Steadfast faith brings us to trust in our Savior and provides peace beyond this world’s understanding. We must learn to trust Him and His wisdom, not our own power of knowing and thinking.
Prayer: Dear Father, thank You for this day You have made. Thank You for the rain that refreshes a parched ground. Thank You for Your word that refreshes a parched spirit. Water me with Your word and fill me with Your Spirit. Help me to remember to trust in You when the storms of life blow my way. Cast the fear of “what if” far from me, in Jesus name, Amen!