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Exodus 2:19 (BSB)
“An Egyptian rescued us from the shepherds,” they replied. “He even drew water for us and watered the flock.”
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““An Egyptian rescued us from the shepherds,” they replied. “He even drew water for us and watered the flock.”” — Exodus 2:19
In this moment, you see a group of young women sharing their excitement and relief. They just met someone who came to their rescue! Picture it: they’re at a well, feeling overwhelmed by a group of rough shepherds who are pushing them away and making it hard for them to water their flock. Then, out of nowhere, this Egyptian steps in, standing up for them, drawing water, and helping out. It’s not just an act of kindness; it’s like a superhero moment where someone shows up just when you need them most. You can almost feel their gratitude and surprise—it’s a mix of relief and awe that someone would go out of their way for them. This Egyptian isn't just helping; he’s changing their day—and maybe even their lives—with one simple act of bravery and compassion.
The book of Exodus is traditionally attributed to Moses himself. He includes this detail to highlight not just his own journey but the kindness that can emerge in unexpected places. Moses was likely reflecting on how he was an outsider, helped by others when he was vulnerable. By including this moment, he emphasizes the importance of community and support, even when it feels like you’re far from home. It gives us a glimpse of who he was and the values he held dear—caring for those in need, which would later define his leadership style as he guides his people.
When Exodus was written, the Israelites were in a tough spot, enslaved in Egypt. They were longing for freedom, and the world around them was filled with oppression and struggle. This was a time when people were looking for hope and someone to stand up for them. In a culture where strength often came from power and might, this story of someone stepping in to help reflects a counter-narrative—showing that true leadership can also come from compassion and bravery. It sets the stage for the dramatic events to come as Moses would return to Egypt to fight against the very oppression he had witnessed and experienced.
This verse matters because it speaks to the heart of how you can make a difference in someone else's life, even in small moments. You might not think much about helping someone in need, but your actions can turn a difficult situation around for someone else. It reminds you that you have the power to be a source of support and encouragement, just like the Egyptian was for those women. In a world that can often feel overwhelming, it’s a call to look for opportunities to lend a hand and lift others up. You never know how your kindness could change someone’s day—or even their life!
Take a moment this week to look for someone who might need help—maybe a friend who’s struggling, a coworker who looks overwhelmed, or even a stranger who could use a hand. It could be as simple as offering to carry something for them, listening to their concerns, or even just sharing a smile. Think about how you can step in and be that unexpected support, just like the Egyptian did. Your small act of kindness can be a beacon of hope for someone who really needs it right now.
This verse is a key piece of the story that’s building around Moses. Before this, Moses had fled Egypt after accidentally killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave. He’s left his old life behind, feeling like a fugitive. Now, he finds himself in Midian, a foreign land, where he comes across these women at the well. His act of helping them shifts the narrative from him being alone and lost to him being a protector and a potential leader. After this moment, he ends up marrying one of the women, Zipporah, and begins to settle down, setting the stage for his eventual return to Egypt to lead his people to freedom. This verse captures the turning point where Moses starts to step into his purpose, and it’s significant because it shows how he begins to connect with others and find his place in the world.
Have you ever experienced a moment when someone stepped in to help you at just the right time? How did that make you feel, and how can you be that kind of support for someone else today?
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