Text:
Genesis 41:41-44; Exodus 1:8; Exodus 7:1-5
Memory Verse:
“Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph” (Exodus 1:8).
In the history of the Israelites, two leaders served under two Pharaohs in the land of Egypt. Joseph served a Pharaoh who had a compassionate heart and allowed the descendants of Jacob to move into Egypt (Genesis 45:16-19). More importantly, this Pharaoh recognised and acknowledged the God of Israel. He had this to say after Joseph had interpreted the dreams and given him counsel, “Can we find such a one as this, a man in whom is the Spirit of God?” (Genesis 41:38b).
In the process of time, another Pharaoh rose to power who refused to acknowledge all that Joseph did to enrich Pharoah and preserve Egypt during the seven years of famine. This Pharaoh refused to honour the God of Israel, saying “Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, nor will I let Israel go” (Exodus 5:2).
Whereas the former Pharaoh had enjoyed the blessings of God, the Pharaoh who lived in the time of Moses brought plagues and suffering that could never be erased from human memory to the Egyptians. His arrogance and disdain for the God of Israel caused him the loss of his firstborn while himself and his able warriors perished in the Red Sea while they were trying to recapture the
Israelites. How will you be remembered? Do you know and honour the God of Israel who
sent His Son to die for your sins? Do not refuse Him like the arrogant Pharaoh. He loves you and is waiting for you.
Prayer Points:
1. Keep me humble, Lord, so that I will receive blessings, not curses, from You.
2. Take away a haughty speech and arrogance from my life, O Lord.
