The second book of the Bible begins with a recitation of the twelve son of Israel. Then it reminds the reader that only 70 descendants came into Egypt to join Joseph. The story is now picking up several generations later. The family of Israel has increased during their 400 years of living in Egypt. 

The new Pharaoh doesn’t remember Joseph, but distrusts the multitude of the Israelite people. He’s afraid that they will join up with his enemies and rebel against him. He oppresses them with forced labor. He uses them to build store cities and work in the fields as slaves. He also wants to reduce their numbers, so he tells the midwives to kill the infant boys that are born to the Hebrew women.

Two midwives named Shiphrah and Puah, refuse to murder the babies, and give the excuse that the Hebrew women gave birth before they arrived because they’re so vigorous. God blesses the women with families of their own. The number of Hebrews continues to grow so Pharaoh calls for all the male babies to be thrown in to the Nile River. 

Go Deeper: A lot can change in four centuries. A family once welcomed as saviors, are now considered a threat. Also, two women use their limited influence to resist the evil intentions of cruel leader. God sees and blesses their brave actions.

Reflect: Has your prosperity ever threatened someone else’s control? How can we resist evil in the world today?