Scripture to Read: Exodus 1:1–7
God had Moses end the book of Genesis with Joseph’s death at 110. God had Moses open Exodus 1 with a reminder of all of the sons of Israel (Jacob). Remember that Joseph had been sold into slavery by his jealous brothers when Joseph was just 17 years old. At age 30, Joseph had been made second only to Pharaoh in Egypt, as Joseph oversaw the gathering of the grain during the seven years of plenty and the distribution of that grain during the seven years of famine. Joseph’s brothers and their families moved to Egypt. God gives us the number of Israel’s family who moved to Egypt in Exodus 1:5, “All the persons who came from the loins of Jacob were seventy in number, but Joseph was already in Egypt.” Joseph and his eleven brothers and their families multiplied abundantly. God’s Word says it this way in Exodus 1:7, “But the sons of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly, and multiplied, and became exceedingly mighty, so that the land was filled with them.” God had told Abraham in Genesis 15:13–16 that his descendants would be strangers in a land that was not theirs (Egypt) where they would be enslaved for four hundred years. God’s sovereign word was given to Abraham to carry out His sovereign will. We can trust God’s plan for our lives as well. He is not going to give us all of the specifics, but if we passionately pursue Him and His Word, we can trust that He’ll reveal what we need (Romans 12:2).
Challenge & Application
· God brought the sons of Israel to Egypt to carry out His perfect will. How do you see God working His perfect will in you?
· How are you passionately pursuing your fellowship with God and His Word so you don’t miss His will each day?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!