Exodus 6:6 “Therefore, say to the Israelites: ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.
The Israelites have been under Egyptian rule for 400 years at this point. Even though they have not fully assimilated into the culture (because Egypt would not allow it), they have adopted many Egyptian ways, including worshipping Egyptian gods instead of the God of Israel.
Exodus 6:7 I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God, who brought you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians.
Egyptian gods are all the Israelites have known for generations. And now Pharaoh is being unfairly harsh, their workload has been increased (because now they have to find their own straw), and Moses, who didn’t show very well the first time and then retreated to Midian, is saying “Trust me. I’m God’s spokesperson.” Honestly, it’s no wonder the Israelites were discouraged.
Exodus 6:8 And I will bring you to the land I swore with uplifted hand to give to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob. I will give it to you as a possession. I am the Lord.’ ”
Precious Savior, Thank You that nothing in this situation surprises You. You knew there would be resistance from all involved–Moses, the Israelites, Pharaoh. Thank You that in all situations You know our hearts. Thank You that Your fierce love of us and great compassion for us is bigger than our fear. Always. Help us, Jesus. Amen.
Exodus 6:9 Moses reported this to the Israelites, but they did not listen to him because of their discouragement and harsh labor.
Have a blessed day.