The book of Exodus continually sounds forth the power of our God before the heathen people. It is made plain – God will have His way.
As the book of Exodus begins God is “behind the scenes” providentially preparing His servant, Moses, for the great task. In addition, the children of Israel prosper in number and strength as a people, becoming a great nation – though in servanthood to Egypt. But as the book progresses confrontation between the God of heaven and the Pharaoh of Egypt takes place. At first Aaron casts down his rod, which becomes a snake and when Pharaoh’s sorcerers do the same Aaron’s rod swallowed up the rods of Pharaoh.
God then sent the 10 plagues: Water Changing to Blood, Frogs, Lice, Flies, Murrain, Boils, Hail, Locusts, Darkness, and Death of the Firstborn. It was at this final plague that Pharaoh allowed God’s children to leave. God had fully shown His power and His loving care for His people.
So that the Israelites would not forget, God instituted the Passover. Moses said, “REMEMBER this day, in which ye came out from Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by the strength of hand the Lord brought you out from this place . . .” (Exodus 13:3). However, they soon forgot God’s strength. In the very next chapter they questioned God “For it had been better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the wilderness” (Ex. 14:12). I AM AMAZED — How Soon They Forgot!
Christians, do we sometimes soon forget? To those who fail to add the “Christian Graces” (2 Peter 1:5—8) Peter said, “But he that lacketh these things is blind, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins” (9). Yes, as Christians, how soon we forget! Even we who have been washed by the blood of the lamb – I AM AMAZED – How Soon We Forget!
Remember. “But call to remembrance” (Heb. 10:31). “Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent”(Rev. 2:5). Yes, remember!
– Steve Housley
Steve Housley is a former Pulpit Minister for Eastern Meadows Church of Christ.
