Who wrote the book of Exodus and who did they write it to?
The book of Exodus is widely believed to be primarily written by Moses and some content was likely added in by others later. The immediate audience would have been the Israelites.
When did the events of the book of Exodus happen?
The Exodus occurs between approximately 1915 BC to 1406 BC.
What is the setting of the book of Exodus?
Exodus covers the events of the Israelites in Egypt, as well as their journey out of Egypt to Mount Sanai.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.
If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:
If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.
If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:
How do we know when we are blessed by God? What does it mean to be “blessed”? One definition, according to Dictionary.com, says “a favor or gift bestowed by God, thereby bringing happiness.” So by definition being blessed is when God gives us favor and gifts.
Throughout this series, we have looked at how we are tested in day-to-day life, what to do when we struggle with God’s plan, how to face conflict, and the importance of standing firm in our faith in the midst of it all. But what comes of all this hardship? Why is standing firm and remaining faithful so important?
When we remain steadfast, constant, and firm in our faith it does not go unnoticed. God sees us keep faith and blesses us through the muck and grind of life in so many different ways. So often we think that being blessed means we will have more money, more ‘things’, perfect relationships, or fewer struggles. We think that by being blessed life will somehow just be easier. This is not what it is to be blessed, though.
Being blessed starts inwardly
Throughout scripture we see a constant theme that explains as we remain steadfast in faith we will experience increased peace and joy that surpasses our human understanding. This peace and joy then overflows out of us into our outward selves and henceforth to other areas of our lives, provisions, and relationships, which are then increasingly blessed as well.
So, to be blessed is really to receive God’s peace and joy, and to be loved, cared for, provided for, and transformed by God. It is God’s fingerprints on every day of our lives. Not only in the big things but also in every little detail of every day, shaped and molded for you by His hands. It is all a blessing.
As we let the blessing of God’s goodness transform our hearts, we begin to see all the additional ways God blesses our lives every day. Soften your heart, open your eyes, and see the wonders God has placed in your path, and through your faithfulness watch those blessings grow.
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You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in God.
But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
There is a strange peace in knowing that any moment could be your last and trusting God with your life nonetheless. This peace has the power to heal, humble, transform, and bring you closer to your calling than you ever imagined was possible. When faced with this strange peace, we must stand firm in it, knowing God is with us and will carry us through in His will and way.
The story of Job tells of circumstances where Job needed to make a decision to trust God, look forward to his heavenly fate whenever it may come, and put his family, friends, and self in God’s hands without wavering. God had taken care of him all his life and now all that he had was stripped away, his friends turned on him, his wife told him to curse God and die, his health was in terrifying condition. Job lost everything, was faced with what seemed to be certain death, and even still Job did something exceptional. Job stood firm in his faith and trust that God was in control, even in his terrible circumstances.
This week I found myself looking to Job for guidance in my own circumstances. I realized that God was trying to teach me to trust Him with my life and with my death, whenever that may come, and even beyond that; that whatever comes, my faith must stand firm in who God is; and that I must always trust God to be in control, no matter what my circumstances are.
I asked God what He wanted me to do and I kept hearing a resounding “do you trust me?” I chose to stand firm in my faith, in who I know God to be, and in the fact that God is in control of everything. No matter where He leads me I am going there with His blessing.
When we are faced with a challenge, suffering, fear, or even possible or certain death in this life we must stand firm in the fact that God is in charge. Oftentimes when we’re seeking it too much we do not see the point, blessing, or lesson and we fail to give God the reigns and let Him handle our situation.
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Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.
You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you.”
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
When Christ walked the earth it was incredibly dangerous to be a follower of Jesus. Even before Christ came people faced peril and ridicule when they talked about God and their faith in Him. When Christ gave the disciples their great commission, He told them they would face trouble in this world while following Him. They would be challenged.
Our culture is what we call the “1st world” may not be a threat of death at every turn when we follow Jesus, but we still face challenges in our walk with Him. We face loved ones, friends, enemies, and strangers alike who will try to sway our faith in God. We trudge through slander, ridicule, loss of relationships, harassment, bullying, assaults, and all kinds of abuse from people because we choose to believe that God is God, scripture is truth, and Jesus died and rose again to save us from our sins. The world around us is ripe with those who will gladly rip your faith to shreds if you let them.
What do we do when we face challenges?
So what do we do when we face these challenges? How do we respond when loved ones and friends discourage us in our faith? What do we do when we face loss and hurt for the sake of our relationship with our Creator?
Rejoice when you are challenged
The first thing we do is rejoice. Rejoice because when we face hostility and suffering for the sake of our faith, generally that means we’re doing something right. We are called to be different, to be set apart. One of the best ways to know you’re set apart for Christ is when others who don’t walk with Jesus notice and lash out because of it. Just as Christ suffered we will suffer, and through it we will glorify God when we respond with praise to our Father in the midst of the hurt and danger.
Pray when you are challenged
The next thing to do is pray. Be grateful to God for the opportunity to shine His light, and lift that gratefulness to Him. Just like we discussed last week, tell Him all that you’re feeling, experiencing, and struggling with. Suffering for His sake is by no means easy. When we lift our hurt feelings, struggles, and sins to Him, and pray over our relationships that are tough or at risk, we allow Him to give us His grace, mercy, and love so that we may exemplify Him to those who try to condemn us. Seek to empty yourself to God so that He can fill you up with Himself, equipping you for the battle ahead.
Set the example when you are challenged
Lastly, set the example. Now that you’ve rejoiced and given it to God, use what God fills you up with to live in the image of Christ. Don’t just walk the walk; talk the talk. It’s not an easy thing to be loving toward those who seek to tear you down, but do it anyway because that is what Jesus would do, and what God calls on us to do.
Praise God for trusting us with these opportunities to glorify and exemplify Him. Let go and let God fill you up with His goodness. Use what God fills you up with to glorify Him, strengthen you, and share the love, truth, mercy and grace of Jesus.
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‘“Anyone who withholds kindness from a friend forsakes the fear of the Almighty. But my brothers are as undependable as intermittent streams, as the streams that overflow when darkened by thawing ice and swollen with melting snow, but that stop flowing in the dry season, and in the heat vanish from their channels. ‘ Job 6:14-17
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Luke 22:41-44
Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 2 Timothy 3:12
But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:13
For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, Philippians 1:29
Last week we dove into some different ways we are tested throughout life, and how we should respond to being tested. Another important thing we can learn from the story of Job is that we will not always understand why we’re going through what we’re going through.
Job does not hide the fact he is confused, upset and in pain. In fact he expresses it straight to God. Throughout the turmoil Job continued to seek God and remained firm in what he knew about God’s nature and promises. He was upset about what he felt God was doing to him, confused about why he was being so brutally treated, and in great agony of many kinds but he still clung to what he knew about God.
What do you know about who God is?
What do you know about His character?
God is faithful, always keeps His promises, never leaves or forsakes us, is in control of everything, loves us without fail, is patient, merciful, our provider, and always has a bigger plan than what we can see.
When you don’t understand your circumstances, talk to God about it. It’s okay to not understand and to be honest with God about our feelings, and above all we should cling to what we know to be true about God’s character and promises when we don’t understand His ways. When we accept that His plan is higher than us we’re better in tune with Him, more at peace with our God-given path, and more thankful for our God-given purpose, promises and provisions. When we try to understand His ways we get distracted from what we know already.
Share your worries, frustrations, confusions and pains with God and lean on who you know He is instead of His ways that you don’t understand.
‘ “Why is light given to him who is in misery, and life to the bitter in soul, who long for death, but it comes not, and dig for it more than for hidden treasures, who rejoice exceedingly and are glad when they find the grave? Why is light given to a man whose way is hidden, whom God has hedged in? For my sighing comes instead of my bread, and my groanings are poured out like water. For the thing that I fear comes upon me, and what I dread befalls me. I am not at ease, nor am I quiet; I have no rest, but trouble comes.”‘
‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. ‘
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
As our world is suffering in a variety of ways due to the current pandemic of COVID-19 we are all being plunged into a world of fear, selfishness, panic, judgment, chaos, and carelessness. Our faith is being tested at a capacity we are unfamiliar with. What we need right now is something so few of us are experiencing – peace.
Peace is found when we trust God and allow ourselves to be emptied of fear, panic, and worry in order for Him to fill us up with His peace. Trusting God is a very human struggle we all face. In order for our trust and faith in God to grow, we will be tested.
We are being tested every single day, from little things to big things. Testing is all about growth and strength training. As we endure testing in our lives we are being refined into who God intended us to be. We are being prepared for eternity in His kingdom.
There are many ways we are tested throughout our lives.
Tested in Selflessness
Do you focus more on your wants or the wants and needs of others? Do you take the time to help others, or worry more about helping yourself? We are called to be selfless, but must constantly fight our selfish nature to become more like Christ and find peace.
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
Do you give only when you have more than enough, share your time only when it suits you, or give only when you get something in return? We’re called to give even when we have little and to expect nothing in return. God provides what we have so that we can be generous toward others. We are more blessed in giving than receiving.
You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
Are you only kind to people when you think they deserve it, or when you’re in the mood to be kind? We are called to be kind at all times. Kindness is an active choice and it is contagious. You don’t spread light with darkness, but you can vanquish darkness with light.
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Do your goals and plans include helping others, or primarily yourself? Do you use the skills God gave you to further His mission, or to further your own? God blesses us with our resources, minds and abilities so that we can use them to serve others and further His kingdom.
For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.
Do you obey God only when it is easy, or only run to Him when life is hard? Are you selfless, generous, kind, and serving others in order to further His mission? God commands us to be faithful in all things, at all times; good and bad, easy and difficult. When we are faithful in the little things, we will be faithful in the bigger things. When we are faithful to God through the testing we see that He is faithful to us.
Whether it is good or bad, we will obey the voice of the Lord our God to whom we are sending you, that it may be well with us when we obey the voice of the Lord our God.”
In order to endure the testing we must face, we must lean into God, trust Him through it, and surrender ourselves and our sense of control to the One who is actually in control. Lift up your struggles with a thankful heart, and remain faithful to God who is always selfless, generous, kind, faithful, and serving His people.
Activate your faith and stand firm, not only to show God we can but to show ourselves that He can. How do you know you really trust God if you’re never put in situations where you must? How will you strengthen your belief that God will carry you if you never surrender control?
God is right there experiencing your struggles with you, waiting for you to trust Him to carry you. Even when it doesn’t feel like it, like He’s left you, like there’s just too much darkness, chaos, and pain, God is there to help you get through it and pass every test. Trust Him to be in control and let His peace replace your fears.
‘And the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servantJob, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil?” Then Satan answered the Lord and said, “Does Job fear God for no reason? Have you not put a hedge around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. But stretch out your hand and touch all that he has, and he will curse you to your face.” And the Lord said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your hand. Only against him do not stretch out your hand.” So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord . ‘
And he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord .” Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the ground and worshiped. In all this Job did not sin or charge God with wrong. ‘
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
Exodus 32 dives in deep to the roots of idolatry in the Israelite people. Their history is filled with idolatry and should be taken as a serious warning to all of us today. The lessons of Exodus 32 are incredibly relevant in many ways to us now.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
‘When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.” ‘
Moses had been up on the mountain for 6 days and the Israelites had already turned from God and even Aaron had allowed so much corruption to come into the community.
Aaron took the people’s jewelry and made an idol from the gold. The people worshiped the idol and then participated in sexual immorality. God was so angry that He told Moses that He would kill them all for their sins, but Moses asked God to spare them so that he could do try to fix the situation.
Can prayers cause God to change His mind?
Sometimes God adjusts His plans in response to our requests or actions. We see this in some areas of scripture (Nu 14:11-23; Am 7:1-7; Jnh 3:1-10). Interpersonal relationships are often complex. We alter our responses according to God’s, and God will sometimes do the same for us. There are many things that will not change just because we want them to. I love the way my NIV Quest Study Bible puts it;
“There are decrees and promises he has made that do not change. He kept His covenant with the forefathers of the Israelites (Dt 7:7-8) and He keeps His new covenant with those who believe in Jesus (Jn 6:37-40, 44). God wants us to live out His will obediently. He has predetermined ways He expects us to respond, but He has made us capable of resisting Him (Ps 143:10; 1Th 5:16-18; Heb 10:35-39; 2Pe 3:9). These aspects of God’s will work together. While it is not possible for us to fully understand how they work together, we know that God is ultimately in control.”
When Moses returned from the mountain where he was convening with God, he was extremely angry with Aaron, who blamed the people for all that had happened, and with the people who had become so corrupt in only a matter of days. Moses called forward the faithful people of God and told them to kill all the sinful people who had rebelled against God.
‘Then he said to them, “This is what the Lord , the God of Israel, says: ‘Each man strap a sword to his side. Go back and forth through the camp from one end to the other, each killing his brother and friend and neighbor.’ ” ‘
I feel the biggest lesson here is that we are called to put God above everything and everyone else, even our own families. God’s will comes first.
‘ “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. ‘
Moses asked for forgiveness for the people, and God decided that He would “blot out” these sinners from His book. The best way I can think to explain God’s book is to think about Santa’s naughty and nice list. The good children on the nice list are rewarded for their good behavior, and the children on the naughty list get coal. Likewise, the faithful children of God are rewarded with Heaven and the naughty list, those who are “blotted out” get damnation.
God tells Moses to lead His people to where He has commanded them and at the right time He will punish them. Then the Lord set a plague on the people as punishment for their sins against Him.
Exodus 31 teaches us about the history of the Sabbath Day. While we don’t necessarily hold to the Sabbath the same ways the Israelites did, there is so much we should learn from the way God instructed them and the reasons behind it all. Let’s explore what the Sabbath is, why it is important even now, and how we can make more space for God in our lives.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
‘“For the generations to come this burnt offering is to be made regularly at the entrance to the tent of meeting, before the Lord . There I will meet you and speak to you; ‘
In order for the Israelites to further concrete themselves in their new culture, God would “show Himself” by appointment only. He specified times for them to come and meet with Him. This helped them to form a habit of coming to Him.
The Sabbath
‘“Say to the Israelites, ‘You must observe my Sabbaths. This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, so you may know that I am the Lord , who makes you holy. ‘
The Sabbath is a day of rest to remind God’s people that they have a unique relationship with God. It is a consistent reminder that they are God’s holy people.
Should we still recognize the Sabbath?
The Sabbath is a day set apart for us to acknowledge that God is in control. It is a day for us to rest, recover, and focus on what is most important. It is a day of reflection and refreshment.
‘“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. ‘
God is not offended by us doing small things on the Sabbath Day.The point is to rest and to focus on the Lord, on good, but still remember that God is the one in control. This is a day to put the normal day-to-day aside and trust God to take control. Setting aside a day per week for rest and worship helps us to set the healthy routine God establishes for us, and allows us to enter a new week refreshed and focused.
Exodus 24-30 covers the Tabernacle. There is so much here that is vital for us to learn and understand, and so much foreshadowing of what was to come when Jesus came to dwell among men. The Tabernacle is certainly not irrelevant – dive in and explore how this still holds much importance for us even today.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
Eventually people access God through Jesus, but in OT times they would reach God through the Tabernacle.
‘“Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them. ‘ Exodus 25:8
God designated the exact specifications for the entire tabernacle as a kind of test of faith and obedience. This manufacturing was done to show their obedience, to instill further obedience in the people, and was given exact ritual practices that would get them into the habit of trusting, honoring, worshiping and obeying God who had saved them. It was a way to aid them in getting used to the new culture God had laid out for them. He wanted His people to have a way to access Him so that they would grow in their faith and obedience to Him.
“Throughout these details we find spiritual parallels to Christ and the church. The tabernacle (literally, dwelling place) points to Jesus the Messiah, who made his dwelling (literally, tabernacled) among us (Jn 1:14, Jn 2:20-21), tore the curtain of the old covenant in two (Mt 27:51), and enabled us to enter the Most Holy Place by His sacrifice (Heb 10:19-22). We can also learn principles about salvation and the church from the pattern of the tabernacle’s construction (Eph 2:21; 1Pe 2:5).”
God laid out an extremely specific design for the Tabernacle. Each piece had specific reasons for its design.
Ark of the Covenant
The ark was the most sacred piece of the tabernacle. The ark held copies of the ten commandments and the Book of the Covenant (which is Exodus 20-23), which explained the specifications for covenant requirements. It was designed to preserve its contents and protect it from human hands.
Bronze Laver
The priests would cleanse themselves using the Bronze Laver, as they must be clean and pure to enter into the presence of God.
Altar of Burnt Offering
Animal sacrifices were made here. The blood of the animal was sprinkled on the four horns of the altar. The blood on the altar was symbolic of God accepting the sacrifice and forgiving the people, cleansing them of their sins.
Gold Lampstand or Menorah
This was set in the Holy Place, across from the table of showbread. It had places for lamps which were little gold bowls with wicks sticking out. The other ends of the wicks were sitting in a bowl of oil. The light from the lamp signified the presence of God.
Table of Showbread
This was always in the presence of God. It had 12 loaves of bread on it, which represented the 12 tribes of Israel.
Altar of Incense
This was a smaller altar than the Alter of Burnt Offering. The incense would fill the tabernacle with sweet smells. The smells would have helped mask the nasty smells of dead animal and blood, and the smoke would have helped to mask the holy objects further showing that they were holy and set apart for God.
Priestly Garments
‘Make sacred garments for your brother Aaron to give him dignity and honor. ‘ Exodus 28:2
Aaron and his sons were the first priests of the Lord. They were instructed to wear very specific garments which were to give them dignity and honor.
The Breastplate of the High Priest
‘“Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he will bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of decision as a continuing memorial before the Lord . ‘
I love this section because we see a lot of these stones in ESO…and, well, we are gamers after all! The breastplate of the high priest had 12 specific precious gems embedded into it; Carnelian, topaz, garnet, emerald, sapphire, diamond, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, and jasper. Each stone had the name of one of the 12 tribes engraved on it. Each stone was precious and signified the value that God placed on His people.
‘“Make linen undergarments as a covering for the body, reaching from the waist to the thigh. ‘
The priests were told to wear very specific attire, which included linen undergarments so that they were covered and not “spiritually naked” in the presence of the Lord. This was to break them away and set them apart from pagan rituals, which often involved nakedness.
Consecration of the Priests
‘Take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head. ‘
This was to symbolize the priests being set apart to serve God for a special purpose.
Why the specific instructions for the animal parts?
‘Then take all the fat on the internal organs, the long lobe of the liver, and both kidneys with the fat on them, and burn them on the altar. But burn the bull’s flesh and its hide and its intestines outside the camp. It is a sin offering. ‘
Some animal parts were considered more desirable and the best parts of the animal were given to God. Other parts were symbolic of sin and were burned, and others were used in pagan rituals and were also burned to ensure that the Israelites would not be tempted to engage in pagan rituals.
What’s with all the blood?
‘And take some blood from the altar and some of the anointing oil and sprinkle it on Aaron and his garments and on his sons and their garments. Then he and his sons and their garments will be consecrated. ‘
Sin cannot be ignored by a holy God and the consequence of sin is death. The blood was to clearly demonstrate the life-for-life substitution. Pouring out the animal’s blood was to show the pouring out of life to cover the sins of the people. This was a sign of forgiveness and renewed life to the sinner.
God required such a massive price for our sins because He did not want His people to ignore the seriousness of sin. The act of killing an animal, the smells, sounds, and sight of it would be very sobering to and remind them of the price for their sins.
Reviewing the Annual Feasts in Exodus 23 helps us to better understand the journey and struggles the Israelites endured after being delivered from slavery. Life was challenging to say the least, and they had to learn a whole new way of life – not unlike us when we choose to accept Christ as our Savior. While we don’t hold these feasts as the Israelites did, learning this part of history has much to teach us about our lives today as well as better understanding where we came from.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
‘“Three times a year you are to celebrate a festival to me. “Celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread; for seven days eat bread made without yeast, as I commanded you. Do this at the appointed time in the month of Aviv, for in that month you came out of Egypt. “No one is to appear before me empty-handed. “Celebrate the Festival of Harvest with the firstfruits of the crops you sow in your field. “Celebrate the Festival of Ingathering at the end of the year, when you gather in your crops from the field. ‘
He is giving them a point-blank warning. God warned against the temptations and “snare” they would face while among those of a different faith. This also is a good point to be reminded to love your neighbor, and to live in love, kindness, and patience.
Does this mean God wants us to live separated from non-Christians?
No. This was an instruction relevant to the Israelites in their situation at the time. It is important to recognize that we today are instructed to “be in the world without being of the world.” We should be careful and not become unequally yoked with non-believers, but we should absolutely be an example and plant seeds in the lives and hearts of non-believers around us.
‘They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. ‘
During this time of the Israelites they were still bombarded by the pagan cultures and needed to be isolated so that they could take on the new life, culture, and way of thinking and worshiping that God was revealing to them.
After reviewing various laws about social responsibility and property, God also instructed his people in Exodus 23 about helping others and providing hospitality. There is a lot we can learn today from Exodus 23, even though times and culture have changed and evolved.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
‘“For six years you are to sow your fields and harvest the crops, but during the seventh year let the land lie unplowed and unused. Then the poor among your people may get food from it, and the wild animals may eat what is left. Do the same with your vineyard and your olive grove. ‘
How do we balance helping the poor and taking care of our families?
I am a firm believer in helping the poor, the homeless, the needy. I have spent almost my entire life being in that demographic. When I was a teenager I would sneak off to the large city nearby and talk to, feed, and make friends with the homeless there every weekend. I would bring sandwiches and fruit, water bottles, and small snacks.
I was young, living in the tiny dining room of my grandparent’s home, without a bed big enough to lay flat in. While we did not have much and I had next to nothing, I knew that I had enough to share with those who had even less than I did.
The way I see it is that God provides for us, and from what He gives to us we have enough to take a piece and give to those who have even less. I also believe that the “materially wealthy” have been given much so that they can help that balance; they have plenty to care for their family, and also to make a huge impact for those who do not have enough.
‘And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” ‘
A few years ago I made the decision to start tithing for the very first time. I set up automatic donations to my church in the tiny amount I felt God put on my heart. I was a single mother, juggling the weight of caring for my very young child on my own, working like a dog to support us, barely having enough food for myself (always putting enough food on the table for my child first), and struggling immensely to pay the bills. It was rough.
I knew, though, that when I decided to give my life to God fully that God had given me enough and that I also had enough to give back to Him. When we give back to God, He takes that and uses it to care for the poor, the needy, the less fortunate. He also blesses those who give.
‘But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”’
Ever since I trusted God wholeheartedly to provide for me while I continue to give from the small material wealth I have to give, God has blessed me immeasurably. He has provided me the ability to leave my job, stay home to care for my child, and continues to provide for me every day.
Every time I worry that the money will run out, or I won’t be able to afford the next “need” God reminds me what He has already done for me, what He has already delivered me from, and He never fails to provide everything that we need – while I continue to faithfully give back to God from what He provides.
No matter how little we have, there is always something we can give. If not money, time. If not time, items.
Here are some practical ways to help others:
Clean out the closet you have been piling junk into and donate those sweaters you haven’t worn in six years to a shelter.
Help organize a food drive or a backpack drive for kids who can’t afford school supplies.
Give warm jackets to foster families and the kids they have taken in.
Host a fundraiser for organizations that help fight sex trafficking, homelessness, mental illness, etc.
There is always something that you can give, and God blesses those who give to Him and to those in need with a generous heart. Tell us in the comments other ideas you have for helping others in practical ways.
How has God delivered you from the wilderness?
‘“See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. Pay attention to him and listen to what he says. Do not rebel against him; he will not forgive your rebellion, since my Name is in him. If you listen carefully to what he says and do all that I say, I will be an enemy to your enemies and will oppose those who oppose you. ‘
When I was younger, I ended up drifting very far from God – pushing myself away from Him for many years. I specifically disobeyed God. I did not understand God or really know Him, or know that I could know Him. I was lost, wandering in my own wilderness, looking everywhere but to Him. I sinned greatly and made myself a very rough path.
I complained to God and asked Him why I was suffering so much. I begged God to save me, to help me, to take me out of the misery – but I did not want to do what He asked me to do. Looking back, it seems like every time I heard God whisper to me “do this” I did the opposite and then wondered why the results were so tragic.
When I was 17, I finally started to understand that I needed to do something different. I knew I was filthy of sin, I was broken, and I could not do it on my own. I wanted so badly for God to make me clean. Unfortunately, I was more tempted by life, by lust, by sin than I chose to resist. I gave in again and found myself in another very wrong, painful, harmful situation.
I had asked God to cleanse me, and He did, and then I turned my back on His commands again and I know that what I received was God teaching me that His path is the only right path and that when I choose my own way it will never be right.
I remember the exact millisecond that I heard God breakthrough to me. I remember Him telling me loud and clear (in my heart, to be clear) “Trust me. End this suffering. Just trust me. We can do this.” I remember it. I remember standing my ground, having strength fill me in an instant that I know was not my own.
I remember every single thing that happened after that moment and recognize God’s hands in all of it. I remember when God ultimately delivered me from my wilderness, and ever since that moment I have worked diligently to run away from sin, to follow His commands, to go against the societal norms, and to be what He calls me to be no matter the cost.
I strive to trust Him no matter the risk. He delivered me from the darkness, from the loneliness, from being lost. He delivered me to Himself and I will never leave Him again.
‘But I will not drive them out in a single year, because the land would become desolate and the wild animals too numerous for you. Little by little I will drive them out before you, until you have increased enough to take possession of the land. ‘
God is with us as we wander our wilderness. Just like the Israelites, we will complain, we will choose not to listen all the time, we will try to make our own way – but when we fail He is right there with us still. He guides our path. It won’t be instant. It takes time to learn to trust and listen to Him. Thankfully, though, we have a very patient and merciful God.
So far, we have reviewed how the Israelites were delivered from slavery, the beginning of their journey, the 10 commandments, and now in Exodus 22, we begin to explore additional laws God gave the Israelites about property and social responsibilities.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
Exodus 22 has many laws about how to handle different situations in their time. God gave very specific laws so that it was easier for His people to develop and maintain a just and stable society. These laws helped them to resolve conflict while still keeping the community unified.
It is important to remember that this was a new community growing into its own. God was laying the foundation for them to start fresh and build a holy community, and the laws set would have been relevant to situations they faced back then.
There is one in particular that really sticks out to me as a confusing law.
‘“If a thief is caught breaking in at night and is struck a fatal blow, the defender is not guilty of bloodshed; but if it happens after sunrise, the defender is guilty of bloodshed… ‘
What this means is that if someone gets robbed in the middle of the night, killing the thief is considered self defense. If it happens during the day, it is considered murder. The justification of this is that if a thief is armed and dangerous, it is self-defense if you kill him – but in the dark you cannot tell if he is armed and dangerous. Killing an unarmed thief in the daylight is just plain murder.
Social Responsibility
At this time, arranged marriages were the norm. Fathers would arrange specific marriages for their daughters especially. The husband-to-be would pay a “bride price”, or dowry, to the girl’s father to take her as his wife.
‘“If a man seduces a virgin who is not pledged to be married and sleeps with her, he must pay the bride-price, and she shall be his wife. If her father absolutely refuses to give her to him, he must still pay the bride-price for virgins. ‘
If a man slept with an unwed virgin daughter, the girl was considered “damaged goods” because she is no longer a virgin. It would be like stealing from the father because he would now be unable to get the “full bride price” for his daughter. To make up for this “theft” the man who defiled her would have to pay the full bride price to her father.
If the father determined that the man would be able to take good care of his daughter, the man and daughter would marry. If the father determined that the man would not be able to take good care of his daughter he would take payment and keep his daughter. In these cases, it would likely be more difficult to find a good husband for her, even at a lower price, which would cause further hardship for the daughter and her family.
‘“Whoever sacrifices to any god other than the Lord must be destroyed. “Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt. ‘
God called on His people to treat the foreigners in their community with common decency, but He also called for the destruction of those who worshiped idols in the promised land.
‘and when the Lord your God has delivered them over to you and you have defeated them, then you must destroy them totally. Make no treaty with them, and show them no mercy. Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your children away from following me to serve other gods, and the Lord ’s anger will burn against you and will quickly destroy you. ‘
We are to love our neighbors and in loving them we are called to bring everyone to God. Foreigners in the promised land were expected to live by God’s rule. If they did not, then the Israelites were commanded to destroy them for their false idols.
‘When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you. ‘
In Exodus 19-21 we see the 10 Commandments for the first time. These are detrimental to the people of Israel, and although we receive updates to the commandments later from Jesus, there is much to be learned from the original commandments. In order to understand the commands Jesus gives us we must also learn the history that led up to that point. That is where Exodus 19-21 comes in.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”
The first thing that comes to my mind is…this sounds like what God seems to remind me of every day; “You have seen over and over again what I can do. Obey my commands and you will be blessed.”
God wants our obedience. He wants us, no matter where we are, where we have come from, what He has pulled us out of, no matter what, to obey Him so He can bless us and call us His own. He proves to us time and again what He is capable of and what He will do for us when we listen and obey, but our human nature is inherently sinful and this proves much harder for us than He intended it to be when He created us before sin was brought into the world. This is why it is called faith. Have faith that it is worth it to obey Him. Have faith that our God is good and He will provide and care for us.
God knows that it is hard for them to do what God commands and to trust Moses as well, so He again tests them telling them they cannot step even one foot onto the mountain in which He will show Himself or they will die. He wants His people to show Him that they will do what He tells them.
Exodus 20
The Ten Commandments
Exodus 20 provides for us the original 10 commandments given by God to the Israelites.
You shall have no other gods before me.
Show respect to God and refuse to prioritize anything or anyone else above Him.
You shall not make for yourself a carved image.
Life your life in whole-hearted devotion to God.
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
Guard your speech to speak respectfully of God. Never use His name for your own agenda.
Remember the Sabbath Day, to keep it holy.
Allow time for meditation with proper rest and relaxation.
Honor your father and mother.
Treat your parents with respect.
You shall not murder.
Recognize God’s control over life and death.
You shall not commit adultery.
Honor the vow of faithfulness to both God and spouse.
You shall not steal.
Guard against taking what is not yours.
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
Respond to others with integrity and respect.
You shall not covet.
Be satisfied with your own possessions and resources.
Do all of these laws apply to Christians?
Many of the original commandments were updated by Jesus while He dwelt on the earth, but these commandments are all still relevant to Christians today. Exodus gives us the historical backdrop for the commands God gives us to live by. We should not brush off the 10 commandments and think they are outdated or unimportant. History still holds value, and this is no exception.
So while the commands were updated later by Jesus, and they are not the societal law or even the norm, learning these commandments and their history allows us to learn more about God and grow closer in relationship with Him. We get to learn more about what it means to be set apart for Him and how He calls us to live.
How can I apply this in my life?
Put God before all things and make time for God every day. Show respect to others and to God while you play. Don’t curse God or threaten others. Be satisfied with what you have, work hard to gain what you do not have, and do not be selfish or expect anything from others. Also, remember to keep time for rest, relaxation, and godly meditation. Take time to be and grow with God, and to let yourself rest.
‘And do not go up to my altar on steps, or your private parts may be exposed.’’
Cultural fun fact: In that time, pagan religions had steps leading up to their altars. By God banning the use of steps, the Israelites would be less likely and less tempted to include pagan rituals in their worship. As far as the private parts being exposed, this may be in relation to the shrine prostitutes that would be at the pagan altars. This could be a kind of mocking of the pagan rituals, kind of like saying “if you want to act pagan, I will shame you like a pagan.”
Exodus 21
Law Concerning Servants
‘“If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free, without paying anything. ‘
In this time, servants were poverty-stricken people who would sell themselves into service to pay off debts, and to secure food and shelter for themselves and their families. It was not slavery. This was a way that the wealthy would help the poor. This was much like an employee-employer relationship.
‘“If a man sells his daughter as a servant, she is not to go free as male servants do. ‘
The selling of women was with the intention of the daughter marrying into the family. If the father of the household married the daughter to his son, he was called to care for and protect her as his daughter.
Law Concerning Violence
‘“If people are fighting and hit a pregnant woman and she gives birth prematurely but there is no serious injury, the offender must be fined whatever the woman’s husband demands and the court allows. But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise. ‘
This particular verse is often used by many who are opposed to abortion. I will make it clear that I will not be discussing abortion here, but I thought it was a great note to point out that this statement is actually describing unintentional harm to the pregnant woman and her child.
God’s laws about violence are to hold yourselves and each other accountable. They are to discourage violence against one another, and to be held accountable for your herds and animals if they should grow violent.
Something that is important to understand is that later on Jesus’ law of love exceeds the expectations of these basic rules for when Christians are mistreated.Jesus exceeded the expectation of “eye for an eye”. He died in our place. He died so that we may live and be made holy and forgiven in the sight of God.
Exodus 14-18 is where we get to see the beginning of the Israelite’s freedom, their incredible deliverance by God from slavery, and their reaction to the blessings being given them. Exodus 14-18 is a pivotal part of the history of mankind as well as of God’s people.
The book of Exodus is filled with important information about the history of God’s people and the world. It is not only important, but so many of the lessons we can learn are relevant to each one of us as children of God. Dive in as we explore Exodus chapter by chapter.
Pharaoh very quickly regretted letting the Israelites go one God had delivered them out of slavery. He chased after them and God gave Moses the power to part the Red Sea, bring the Israelites through the trenches, Egyptian soldiers following close behind, and delivered them to the other side while ultimately destroying the Egyptians that had chased after them.
‘And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and he will pursue them, and I will get glory over Pharaoh and all his host, and the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord .” And they did so. ‘
God wanted everyone, Israelites and Egyptians, believers and non-believers, to know that He is Lord Almighty and He is all powerful. He wanted them to know that He is greater than the Egyptians many false gods.
One very interesting thing is that Egyptian history does not document any of these events. The Egyptians were a very proud people and it was actually not uncommon for a Pharaoh to not report on their failures and defeats. It was also pretty common for them to change official records and stories so that the official records were more in their favor.
Exodus 15
The Song of Moses and Miriam
‘ Your right hand, O Lord , glorious in power, your right hand, O Lord , shatters the enemy.’
It was actually not until after the Exodus that Israelites started to really understand that there is only one God.
Why are songs included in the Bible?
Music has a central role in worship. Throughout scripture, God requests songs be sung for Him. This song during the Exodus was likely a joyful outburst of praise and worship as the Israelites had just been saved and set free.
Who was Miriam?
She was a priestess, sent with her brothers, Aaron and Moses, to lead Israel. God used her and spoke through her, which gave her a sort of authority. She is who led the worship after the Exodus.
Exodus 16
Bread from Heaven
Once the Israelites were delivered from slavery, God led them out into the wilderness. While in the wilderness the Israelites began to again test God. Even after all God had done for them they still did not trust in Him. They groaned and complained, and because they continued to test God, God tested them. Moses reminded the Israelites that their grumblings against them (Moses and Aaron) were actually grumblings against God since Moses and Aaron were leading them in God’s will.
‘And Moses said, “When the Lord gives you in the evening meat to eat and in the morning bread to the full, because the Lord has heard your grumbling that you grumble against him—what are we? Your grumbling is not against us but against the Lord .” ‘
God told the Israelites that each day they can only gather enough food for that day, and no more. This was a test to see if they would listen. When someone would keep leftovers, in the morning is was rotten. On the sixth day, they were told to gather 2 days’ worth and save the second portion for the next day, which was the first observance of the Sabbath; a holy day of rest and no work. God wanted them to rest and not have any work on the seventh day.
‘See! The Lord has given you the Sabbath; therefore on the sixth day he gives you bread for two days. Remain each of you in his place; let no one go out of his place on the seventh day.” ‘
‘Now the house of Israel called its name manna. It was like coriander seed, white, and the taste of it was like wafers made with honey. Moses said, “This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Let an omer of it be kept throughout your generations, so that they may see the bread with which I fed you in the wilderness, when I brought you out of the land of Egypt.'” And Moses said to Aaron, “Take a jar, and put an omer of manna in it, and place it before the Lord to be kept throughout your generations.” As the Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron placed it before the testimony to be kept. The people of Israel ate the manna forty years, till they came to a habitable land. They ate the manna till they came to the border of the land of Canaan. ‘
God provided them with manna to eat every day for 40 years while they wandered the wilderness. Then, when they came to the promised land of Canaan He told them to keep a small amount of manna that He would preserve through generations so that future generations could see what God had fed them in the wilderness.
Exodus 17
Water from the Rock
God’s people continue to put Him to the test, complaining to Moses about what they do not have. So God, again testing them in return tells Moses to go with the elders of Israel to the rock at Horeb and strike it with his staff and He will make water flow from it.
The Amalekites Defeated
The Amalekites were descendants of Esau who made a living raiding other tribes and killing for their pleasure. They came to attack the Israelites, and God had Joshua take some men to fight the Amalekites. While they fought, Moses went up on the mountain with his staff. Whenever Moses had his hands raised with his staff, the Israelites would prevail. When he would rest his hands, Amalek prevailed. When Moses grew too weary to keep his hands up, Hur (Miriam’s husband) and Aaron sat him on a rock and held his hands up to steady them until Joshua overwhelmed Amalek.
‘And Moses built an altar and called the name of it, The Lord Is My Banner, saying, “A hand upon the throne of the Lord ! The Lord will have war with Amalek from generation to generation.” ‘
Jethro, Moses’s father-in-law, heard of everything that had happened to Moses and the Israelites, and came to Moses with Moses’ wife and children to provide a burnt offering to God. Moses did as his father-in-law had recommended, and Jethro went back home.
‘Now obey my voice; I will give you advice, and God be with you! You shall represent the people before God and bring their cases to God, and you shall warn them about the statutes and the laws, and make them know the way in which they must walk and what they must do. Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. And let them judge the people at all times. Every great matter they shall bring to you, but any small matter they shall decide themselves. So it will be easier for you, and they will bear the burden with you. If you do this, God will direct you, you will be able to endure, and all this people also will go to their place in peace.” ‘
I am a wife, mom, writer, crafter, and above all, a Child of God. I love to study the Bible, fellowship with other Christians, and serve God. I am thrilled to invite you to join me in seeking to satisfy our thirsty souls with the Living Water of Christ, which is what Water On Thirsty Land is here to do.
