The descendants of Jacob numbered seventy in all; Joseph was already in Egypt.
Exodus 1:5 (NIV)
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Today’s Devotional
This verse recounts the number of Jacob’s descendants who traveled to Egypt. The seventy members of Jacob’s family, including Joseph who was already in Egypt, would later grow into a large nation. This growth was part of God’s promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that their descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky. This verse sets the stage for the story of the Israelites’ growth, their enslavement in Egypt, and their eventual deliverance through Moses under God’s guidance.
Time to reflect
As you reflect on the humble beginnings of the Israelite nation, consider the following questions:
- How does the growth of the Israelites from a small family to a great nation demonstrate God’s faithfulness to His promises?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s faithfulness in your own life and faith journey?
- How can you trust God to fulfill His promises in your life, even when the circumstances seem unlikely or challenging?
Prayer Of The Day
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your faithfulness to Your promises throughout history. We are grateful for the example of the Israelites, who grew from a small family into a great nation, as a testament to Your unwavering love and care.
Lord, help us to trust in Your faithfulness and to rely on Your promises in our own lives. Give us the strength and patience to wait on You, even in challenging circumstances, and to recognize Your hand at work in our lives. Teach us to be steadfast in our faith, knowing that You are a God who keeps His promises.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Strengthening Faith
- Study the stories of the Israelites in the Bible, reflecting on God’s faithfulness to His promises and His guidance throughout their history.
- Take time to prayerfully consider how God has been faithful in your own life, and thank Him for His unwavering love and care.
- Share your experiences of God’s faithfulness with others, encouraging them to trust in God’s promises and to rely on His guidance in their own lives.
- In moments of doubt or uncertainty, turn to Scripture for reminders of God’s faithfulness and His promises to His people.
- Pray for patience and perseverance as you wait on God to fulfill His promises in your life, trusting that He is working for your good and His glory.
Today Wisdom
The story of the Israelites’ growth from a small family to a great nation serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness to His promises. As we reflect on this example, let us be encouraged to trust in God’s faithfulness in our own lives, knowing that He is a God who keeps His promises and is always working for our good and His glory.
