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Exodus 1:20 (BSB)
So God was good to the midwives, and the people multiplied and became even more numerous.
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“So God was good to the midwives, and the people multiplied and became even more numerous.” — Exodus 1:20
Imagine a moment when a group of brave women stood up against the powerful forces of their time, choosing to protect life rather than follow orders that went against their moral compass. In this verse, we see those midwives, filled with courage and purpose, doing their job with integrity. And because of their actions, not only did they earn God’s favor, but their community thrived and grew stronger. This is a snapshot of their incredible impact, showing that when you stand for what’s right, amazing things can happen.
This book was written by Moses, who had a unique perspective as someone who experienced both the oppression of his people and their eventual liberation. He included this detail about the midwives to showcase their pivotal role in the story of Israel’s survival. Moses wanted to emphasize that even in dark times, there are individuals who shine brightly through their actions. His own life was a testament to this, having been saved as a baby and later leading his people to freedom.
When Moses wrote this, the Israelites were living in Egypt, facing harsh slavery around 1500 BC. It was a time when oppression was the norm, and fear ruled the lives of many. The Egyptian culture valued power and control, often at the expense of human life. This setting is crucial to understanding the courage of the midwives; in a world where compliance was expected, their defiance was revolutionary. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there’s always a chance for bravery and hope.
This verse matters because it speaks directly to you about the power of your choices. Just like those midwives, you might find yourself in situations where doing the right thing feels risky or unpopular. But this verse is a reminder that standing up for what’s right can lead to incredible outcomes, not just for yourself but for others, too. It’s about the impact you can have when you choose integrity over fear, showing that your actions can create ripples of change in your community.
This week, think about a situation in your life where you feel pressured to go along with the crowd. Take a moment to reflect on what the right thing to do is for you and those around you. Whether it’s speaking up for someone who’s being treated unfairly or choosing honesty in a tough situation, take that step. You can even write down your thoughts or share them with a friend to help you stay committed to your choice. Remember, like the midwives, your courage to do what’s right can lead to positive change!
To truly appreciate this moment, let’s step back into the chapter. The Israelites, once welcomed in Egypt, now faced oppression from a Pharaoh who feared their growing numbers. He ordered the midwives to kill newborn boys, but these courageous women defied him, prioritizing life over fear. Their bravery sparked a ripple effect, allowing the Israelites to flourish despite the oppression. This verse is like a turning point; it highlights the power of standing up for what’s right, even when the odds are against you. It marks a crucial moment of resistance and hope that sets the stage for the stories of freedom to come.
What is a situation in your life where you feel challenged to stand up for what you believe is right? How can you take inspiration from the midwives' courage to act in that situation?
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