Let us turn to Exodus 1:8–22 as we begin our study of how God delivers His people. This passage sets the stage for the great act of deliverance that defines the book of Exodus and reveals a God who sees, cares, and acts on behalf of His people.

The text begins with a sobering statement: “Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph” (v. 8). For generations, the Israelites had lived peacefully in Egypt, flourishing under the favor Joseph had won through God’s providence. But now, a new Pharaoh has come to power—one who neither remembers Joseph nor acknowledges the contributions of God’s people.

This Pharaoh looks at the Israelites not as allies but as a threat. He fears their numbers and strength, saying in verse 9, “Behold, the people of Israel are too many and too mighty for us.” Out of fear and insecurity, he enslaves them, forcing them into harsh labor to build his cities. Yet, despite his oppression, the text tells us in verse 12: “The more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and the more they spread abroad.”

This is the first glimpse of God’s hand in this story. Even in the midst of suffering, God’s promise to Abraham—that his descendants would become a great nation—remains intact. Pharaoh’s schemes cannot thwart the purposes of God.

But Pharaoh does not relent. His oppression escalates into cruelty. He commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every newborn Hebrew boy. These women, however, fear God more than Pharaoh and courageously defy his orders, allowing the boys to live. Their faithfulness is noted by God, who blesses them with families of their own.

Pharaoh’s frustration reaches a climax as he commands all his people: “Every son that is born to the Hebrews you shall cast into the Nile” (v. 22). This decree plunges Israel into even deeper suffering, yet it is in this darkness that God begins His work of deliverance.

Themes and Reflections

This passage reminds us that God is always aware of His people’s suffering. The Israelites must have felt abandoned, yet the narrative shows that God’s plan was still unfolding. Pharaoh’s oppression could not stop God’s covenant promises. Instead, it became the stage for His deliverance.

How often do we feel forgotten in our struggles? Like the Israelites, we may face seasons where God’s presence seems distant, where circumstances seem unbearable. Yet Exodus 1 teaches us that God sees, God cares, and God is working—often in ways we cannot yet perceive.

Application

As we reflect on this passage, let us ask ourselves:

• How can we trust God’s timing in our own difficult circumstances?

• Are there areas in our lives where fear or doubt have overshadowed our faith in God’s promises?

Just as God saw the oppression of His people in Egypt, He sees you today. He knows your pain, your burdens, and your struggles. Trust that His timing is perfect, even when the answers seem delayed.

Closing Challenge

This week, take time to reflect on God’s faithfulness in your past struggles. Journal moments where you felt God’s presence in times of suffering and thank Him for His care. And as we continue our journey through Exodus, remember: God’s deliverance often begins in the midst of difficulty.

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for being a God who sees and cares for His people. Help us to trust You in our times of suffering and to believe that You are always working for our good. Strengthen our faith in Your timing and Your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.