Thoughts on Exodus

I am way behind when it comes to blogging about my journey through scripture this year, but better late than never right?

Exodus is a book that constantly reminds me of my lack of faith and God's faithfulness. I can't count how many times in the last month I have said, "God, you parted the Red Sea. You literally split waters to let your children walk across dry land. You can handle this problem and these circumstances."

I have always known the story of Moses and the Israelites, but for some reason, when I read scripture in its entirety, I have come to know God in such an intimate way. I feel like I am getting to know HIM, not just know ABOUT Him. My words are failing me, so let me just share a list of things I noticed as I read through this book.

1. After Moses' mother has to give him up by putting him in a basket and floating it down the river, Moses is found by Pharaoh's daughter, who hires Moses' mom (unknowingly) to nurse Moses. How crazy is that? Moses' mother gets hired to nurse her own baby. She gets paid for it!

2. Moses second-guessed his ability to fulfill God's call almost 10 times before he just did what God was telling him to do. He literally said to God, "Can't you just pick someone else for this?" That was paraphrased. God was so patient with him. What a great reminder that when God chooses us for something, we must trust that He will enable us to fulfill His call if we are obedient.

3. God hardened Pharaoh's heart. God does what He wants.

4. Some of the things God told the Israelites to do--like Passover--were gross. I don't understand why they were necessary, but who am I to question God?

5. Nature is at God's disposal. He can move mountains, part waters, control animals and insects. Again, He can do whatever He wants.

6. We need to be aware of how we treat (mistreat) foreigners. God's people were almost always in a foreign land.

7. Our justice system is cake compared to God's expectations concerning social responsibilities in Exodus 22 and the consequences of breaking God's laws.

8. The tabernacle and everything in it was ornate and beautiful. There were concise instructions for every part of it. Measurements, fabric type, fabric color, etc. This was going to be the dwelling place of God! Today, our churches don't need all of these ornaments because the Holy Spirit now dwells in us. Take care of God's dwelling place.

I know 8 is a random number. Sorry. Let me leave you with my favorite verse from Exodus. I never thought I would say that last sentence, but I now have a favorite verse in Exodus.

"Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still." Exodus 13:13-14