Now a man of the tribe of Levi married a Levite woman, and she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. When she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him for three months. – Exodus 2:1-2
God’s Plan in Uncertain Times
When we think about Moses’ birth, we see a glimmer of hope during turbulent times. His mother, Jochebed, faced immense pressure from Pharaoh’s decree to kill all newborn Hebrew boys. Yet, in her heart, she must have sensed God’s greater plan for her child. We can relate to such moments of uncertainty in our lives. Just like Jochebed, we too must trust in the Lord’s protection and guidance. God has a unique purpose for each of us, even when challenges seem overwhelming. Remember, God’s plans are often revealed amidst trials and tribulations. Just like Jochebed, our faith can become the foundation for something incredible.
Exodus 2:1
Now a man of the tribe of Levi married a Levite woman, and she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. – Exodus 2:1
Exodus 2:2
When she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him for three months. – Exodus 2:2
Hebrews 11:23
By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict. – Hebrews 11:23
Exodus 1:22
Then Pharaoh gave this order to all his people: “Every boy that is born you must throw into the Nile, but let every girl live.” – Exodus 1:22
Exodus 2:3
But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile. – Exodus 2:3
A Mother’s Love and Sacrifice
The story of Moses’ birth also highlights the profound love and sacrifice of a mother. Jochebed’s actions were driven by her fierce love for her son. She put herself at great risk by hiding him, reflecting the strength and determination that love can inspire. We see here that a mother’s love knows no boundaries and is willing to make sacrifices for the well-being of their children. This deeply resonates with our own lives, as we often make sacrifices, big and small, for those we love. Through Jochebed’s love, we can be encouraged to love fiercely and stand firm in our commitments, trusting that our sacrifices will have lasting impacts.
Exodus 2:4
His sister stood at a distance to see what would happen to him. – Exodus 2:4
Exodus 2:5
Then Pharaoh’s daughter went down to the Nile to bathe, and her attendants were walking along the riverbank. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her female slave to get it. – Exodus 2:5
Exodus 2:6
She opened it and saw the baby. He was crying, and she felt sorry for him. “This is one of the Hebrew babies,” she said. – Exodus 2:6
Exodus 2:7
Then his sister asked Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and get one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?” – Exodus 2:7
Exodus 2:8
“Yes, go,” she answered. So the girl went and got the baby’s mother. – Exodus 2:8
God’s Deliverance Begins
While times were dark during Moses’ birth, the light of God’s deliverance began to shine through Jochebed’s courage and love. Her decision to save Moses did not just change his life but set into motion God’s plan for the entire nation of Israel. This teaches us that our small acts of faith can lead to monumental outcomes. We can be instrumental in God’s work simply by responding to His call in our lives. Like Moses’ birth, God can use our decisions to bring about His goodness in the world. Let us allow our faith to fuel our actions, trusting that God is guiding our steps towards His greater plan.
Exodus 2:9
Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this baby and nurse him for me, and I will pay you.” So the woman took the baby and nursed him. – Exodus 2:9
Acts 7:20
At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for by his family. – Acts 7:20
Exodus 2:10
When the child grew older, she took him to Pharaoh’s daughter and he became her son. She named him Moses, saying, “I drew him out of the water.” – Exodus 2:10
Hebrews 11:24
By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. – Hebrews 11:24
Exodus 3:10
So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt. – Exodus 3:10
The Impact of Moses’ Early Years
The early years of Moses’ life laid the foundation for his destiny as a leader. His upbringing not only enriched his character but also prepared him for his crucial mission. The nurturing he received was essential for the future challenges he would face in leading the Israelites. As we reflect on Moses’ early years, it reminds us of the importance of grounding our children in faith and values. The time invested in their upbringing can shape their futures. Each moment spent nurturing our loved ones can have a tremendous effect, teaching us to be intentional in raising those who will carry God’s work into the future.
Acts 7:21
When he was placed outside, Pharaoh’s daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. – Acts 7:21
Galatians 4:4
But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law. – Galatians 4:4
Matthew 1:1
This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: – Matthew 1:1
Mark 12:26
Now about the dead rising, have you not read in the Book of Moses, in the account of the bush? God said to him, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ – Mark 12:26
John 5:45
But do not think I will accuse you before the Father. Your accuser is Moses, on whom your hopes are set. – John 5:45
God’s Favor and Protection
Lastly, the narrative of Moses’ birth reminds us of God’s everlasting favor and protection. Through each phase of his early journey, we see how the hand of God was upon Moses, guiding him to ultimately fulfill His divine purpose. This assurance of God’s protection is an invitation for us to rest in His sovereignty. Much like Moses, we can place our trust in God, knowing He watches over us, even in challenging circumstances. This can be a tremendous source of comfort. We can take solace in the understanding that God is with us in our battles, ready to shield us as we step forth in faith.
Psalm 91:1
Whoever dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. – Psalm 91:1
1 Peter 5:7
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. – 1 Peter 5:7
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10
Psalm 121:7
The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; – Psalm 121:7
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. – Proverbs 3:5-6
Final Thoughts
The story of Moses’ birth is a powerful reminder of how God intervenes even in difficult circumstances. Through the journey of his mother, we see the overwhelming love and courage that can shape future generations. It’s a beautiful promise that God has a plan for each of us, even when we face obstacles. By nurturing the faith of the next generation, we contribute to God’s purpose in profound ways. As we reflect on Moses’ early life, let’s find inspiration to live boldly, trusting in God’s protection and favor in our own lives.
Let us embrace the calling to love fiercely, trusting that God is with us as we nurture our families and communities. If you’re interested in exploring other biblical insights, you can read about Jesus in the Old Testament, or check out jesus’ birth in the Old Testament.
God bless us all as we continue in our walk of faith.