Exodus 5:5 Then Pharaoh said, “Look, the people of the land are now numerous, and you are stopping them from working.”
Today’s verses are carrying me dangerously close to impotent anger. Anger because of the unfairness of the Pharaoh–Not only will he not grant Moses and Aaron’s request, but also, he tells his people that the Israelites have too much time on their hands and tells them to intentionally make the plight of the Israelites much harder. Talk about not fair.
Exodus 5:6-7 That same day Pharaoh gave this order to the slave drivers and overseers in charge of the people: “You are no longer to supply the people with straw for making bricks; let them go and gather their own straw.
Impotence for a number of reasons: All of this happened so very long ago. I have no connection to the Israelites and their plight, so my anger can do nothing for anyone involved. If there is one thing I’m sure of when it comes to my morning prayer and reading time, it’s that God doesn’t want me to stew in impotent anger. So what am I to do with this emotion?
Exodus 5:8 But require them to make the same number of bricks as before; don’t reduce the quota. They are lazy; that is why they are crying out, ‘Let us go and sacrifice to our God.’
Precious Savior, Impotent anger has no place in my relationship with you, and anger is absolutely not an emotion that fills me with Your peace and love. Show me what to do with this emotion. Show me how to use Your word and the feelings it creates in me to bring You praise and glory. Help me, Jesus. Amen.
Exodus 5:9 Make the work harder for the people so that they keep working and pay no attention to lies.”
Have a blessed day.