THURSDAY, JANUARY 31
Exodus 12:34-51
Matthew 6:33

“And it came to pass at the end
of the four hundred and thirty years …”

GOD WILL PROVIDE

The baby nation-to-be was at the point of coming forth at the end of the birth pangs. In haste, the children of Israel used their clothes as bags to carry their unleavened dough and kneading troughs to leave Egypt. Just as the LORD had instructed through Moses earlier (Exod 11:2-3), they asked the Egyptians for jewels of silver and gold and clothing before they left. And the Egyptians handed over these items as requested. The Hebrew words “borrowed” and “lent” here are understood as “asked for” and “granted on request” respectively. The LORD moved the Egyptians’ hearts to give. In fact, the giving was so great that the children of Israel practically stripped them clean. This was truly a memorable night for they finally left Egypt after 430 years. The mixed multitude also took this opportunity to leave Egypt, but they had to be circumcised if they wanted to participate in the Passover.

How did two million people prepare to leave a place after being there for so long? Would slaves have the possessions and resources needed to set up a temple for worship, let alone be a nation? And to leave suddenly, practically overnight, would be quite frightening. They had no time to plan or to save up. But the LORD provided. He had already planned and would provide for them. These items were later used for the construction of the Tabernacle and the priestly garments. God would always provide for His work. Do you worry about the future? Do you wonder where provisions will come from? If you are doing what God desires for your life, family, and the church, you need not worry. Receiving expensive items from the Egyptians probably did not cross their minds, let alone the great quantity. If you are seeking His kingdom first, and not your own pleasure, promotion, and pride, God will provide.

THOUGHT: God can order situations and move hearts to provide in ways we cannot even imagine.
PRAYER: LORD, I thank Thee that I will not lack what is needed when I do Thy will.