Exodus 12:28 The Israelites did just what the LORD commanded Moses and Aaron.
Twice in this chapter, here and in Exodus 12:50, we see the Israelites acting in obedience. They were not forced into obedience, just as we are not. They are not automatons with no capacity for individual thought and decision. Just like us, the Israelites had free will. They could choose to obey or not. And their obedience here led them toward freedom after 430 years in captivity.
Exodus 12:31 During the night, Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Up! Leave my people, you and the Israelites! Go, worship the LORD as you have requested.”
Even Pharaoh, who hardened his own heart so many times. Whose decision for a hardened heart was reinforced many times through God so that ultimately, God would be recognized and glorified, even Pharaoh finally obeys God’s direction, allowing, urging, exhorting the Israelites to “Leave my people!”
Exodus 12:50 All the Israelites did just what the LORD had commanded Moses and Aaron.
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for the ability to choose You. I cannot imagine the anguish we cause You when we wallow in bad choices. It must break Your heart to know that one right choice would bring us straight to Your heart. But You understand that forced obedience is not obedience and that it has to be our choice for it to be meaningful. Help us, Lord, to seek You, to choose You, daily. Draw us closer. Amen.
Exodus 12:51 And on that very day the LORD brought the Israelites out of Egypt….
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.