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Exodus 1:10 (BSB)
Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, or they will increase even more; and if a war breaks out, they may join our enemies, fight against us, and leave the country.”
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, or they will increase even more; and if a war breaks out, they may join our enemies, fight against us, and leave the country.”” — Exodus 1:10
In this moment, you can feel the tension in the air. The people in power are worried. They're looking at the growing number of Israelites and feeling threatened. They think, 'What if these people become so numerous that they turn against us?' They decide to act shrewdly, meaning they want to be clever and strategic about handling the situation. Their fear drives them to scheme against a group they've seen as a potential threat, highlighting a raw, human emotion: fear. This verse captures a powerful moment of decision-making fueled by anxiety and a desire to maintain control.
This book was written by Moses, a central figure in the story of the Israelites. He shares this detail to give you insight into the mindset of the Egyptians at the time. Moses himself experienced the oppression and later the miraculous escape of his people. By including this moment, he emphasizes the fear and injustice that provoke a cycle of suffering for the Israelites, helping you understand the gravity of their situation and the need for deliverance.
When this was written, the Israelites were living in Egypt under a new king who didn't remember Joseph, the man who had once saved Egypt from famine. The world was a place where power dynamics shifted rapidly, and fear often dictated actions. The Egyptians felt threatened by the growing Israelite population, which created a climate of anxiety and hostility. Understanding this historical backdrop helps you see how these ancient people navigated a world filled with danger and uncertainty.
This verse speaks directly to the struggles we face today – fear of the unknown, feeling threatened by change, or worrying about the future. It reminds you that the decisions made out of fear can lead to harmful actions, not just for others but for yourself too. By recognizing this pattern, you can choose a different path – one of understanding and compassion instead of fear. It challenges you to think about how you respond to situations that make you feel threatened or uncomfortable.
This week, take a moment to reflect on a situation where you might be acting out of fear. Are there people or circumstances you view as threats? Instead of reacting defensively, try approaching them with curiosity and openness. You might start a conversation or reach out to understand their perspective better. It’s all about flipping the script – choose to respond with kindness rather than fear.
This verse is a pivotal moment in the larger story of Exodus. It comes right after the Israelites have multiplied in Egypt, and the new king feels threatened by their numbers. This fear leads him to devise a plan to deal with them harshly so they won't become a problem. It sets the stage for the oppression that follows, showing how fear can lead to drastic actions. This tension propels the narrative forward, creating a backdrop for the Israelites' suffering and eventual liberation, making you realize just how dire the situation has become.
What fears or concerns in your life might be influencing how you see and treat others around you?
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