IGNORANCE AND FEAR

Reference text: Exodus 1:8-14, 22

Two concepts, among many, emerge from the text today
1.  Ignorance

Exodus 1:8 Now there arose up a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph.

Because the new king had no idea of what had been, his decision making on what will be was affected. Our invitation thus is not to use the past as foundation and the only point of focus, but it’s events can sometimes serve as valid templates to direct future course action.

There is a balance though to this as many have unfortunately become slaves to the past: unable to let go of hurts, disappointment, and experiences. Many are so weighed down that their future is being entirely shaped by a past they should have left behind. There is a past that is worth learning from, and another that should be let go off completely. This distinction is crucial.

2. Fear

Exodus 1:10 Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, so that they will not multiply and in the event of war, join our enemies, and fight against us and escape from the land

The decision of the king to make slaves out of Israel was built on speculation and presumption, ultimately resulting in fear. Such gripping fear that the entire nation of Egypt, owners of the land, lived in dread of Israel. All subsequent actions that followed were rush, ill intentioned and ruthless. Yet, that only make Israel more strong.

Fear is blinding. It can mask the strengths  and highlight only weaknesses. It can close your eyes to goodness around you, and set you on a collision course with others. Check to see what is fueling your action.

#sly