NO LONGER CAPTIVES

Read Exodus 12:29-39

Then he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, “Rise, go out from among my people, both you and the children of Israel. And go; serve the LORD as you have said.”

Exodus 12:31 (NKJV)

Pharaoh and the Egyptians were in terror when the tenth and final plague – the death of all firstborns – stuck the land (Exodus 11:5). Finally relenting, Pharaoh ordered the Israelites to leave and be free, fearing further suffering would come upon his kingdom. The day the Israelites have long waited for was finally here. They were free from their bondage in Egypt! Their trials, tribulations, crying, and sorrows were heard and answered by the Lord (Exodus 3:7), who delivered them out of the house of bondage (Exodus 20:2) . The morning would be a day of victory for the children of Israel.

However, Pharaoh’s obstinance and refusal to acknowledge God led to God hardening his heart. Again, God would show the Israelites and the surrounding nations that He was their Savior and Protector by providing a way of escape through the Red Sea and destroying the Egyptian army.

Whatever circumstances or situations you may feel are immovable, remember, there is nothing that God cannot do (Mark 10:27). The Israelites lost hope many times. Hardships of pain, grief, or sorrow are only for a season (Ecclesiastes 3:1). In Christ, you can be free from the bondage of sin that keeps you captive. God promises deliverance to those who call and wait on Him (Psalm 34:17). The children of Israel were free to serve their God, and you can also receive that freedom if you rely on Him.

Prayer Focus: Freedom to serve God.

Prayer: Dear Father, please be with the people across the globe that are in bondage to serve you openly, and provide liberty. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thought for Today: Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. John 8:36    

Contributor: Ms. Nichole Shaw (Florida, United States)

Screen Editor: Mr. Neil Cummings

Editor: Mr. Eliezer D. Rodriguez