Woven

Since the Bible is full of stories, we can look at elements within each story that stand out in importance. In Genesis, we talked about plot twists. There was simply no way around it. Looking back over the book as a whole we can see so many instances where God turned situations around and brought about unlikely endings from messy middles.

In Exodus, I think we have to focus on character development, and Moses provides many teachable moments. I want to list a few, and I'd love for you to hold your own Bible and search these chapters in Exodus for the moments that are meant for your own personal learning today.

· Exodus 3 outlines Moses' call. It was specific, powerful, and personal, yet Moses asked God in verse 14, when the sons of Israel ask me what Your name is, what do I tell them? We are going to notice a recurring theme with Moses. He has a lot of questions. Some could say that he likes to be prepared. But, his uncertainty looks an awful lot like insecurity and fear. Either way, he was God's man for the job.

· Exodus 4 details God giving Moses power to use in his interactions with Pharaoh. Just glance through. Moses was able to do some pretty amazing things under the influence of God's strength. But, in verse 13 he said to the LORD, Please send the message by whomever Thou wilt. I thought God had given the message to Moses. But, since he asked for someone else, God sent Aaron to help Moses speak.

· In Exodus 5, Pharaoh hardens the already tough work that the Hebrews have to do, and I'm sure this difficulty strengthens Moses' resolve to do whatever has to be done to reach freedom. And, in chapter 6, God promises freedom. He reminds Moses of His covenant and teaches Moses about his name, YHWH. (Angie taught on that a good bit in our chapter).

· Over the next 13 chapters, God requires Moses and Aaron to meet with Pharaoh over and over. These encounters had to built Moses' character and dependence on the Lord. But, over and over, he won't get the response he's after.

Ladies, I want to say so many things about all of these chapters in Exodus, because there is so much here. But, I also want to leave space and time for you to read through parts of Exodus and be taught by God. When I'm overwhelmed by the information and wondering what to focus on for you, God reminds me that it could be different for each one of you. Only He can know what you need to hear. So, I am inviting you to look through the pages of Exodus. Dig in to one or more of the chapters (1-15) and see what YHWH causes to jump right off the page and into your heart.

Also, when you have 6 minutes, take a look at this video. It's a visual outline of the book of Exodus, and it will help you organize the details of this second book of the Bible.

Journal - In your journal today, write out words that describe Moses. Start a little character analysis. In your opinion, what made Moses right for the job God called him to do. How can Moses' call and leadership lead you to pray for yourself? Lastly, what does the exodus event teach you about your God? How should you respond?

Dear God, the stories of the Bible are ultimately about YOU. We get to see ourselves in each frame, but the point of the whole things is that we'd be able to see You and who You are in a way that compels us to trust and become who YOU designed us to be. As we study Moses and the Hebrews, I'm sure my friends (like me) could remember there own freedom stories. So, cause us all to sit in joy and gratitude today, because You are our Rescuer. Let the words of Miriam in Exodus be our thanksgiving today, too. Amen.