September 21: Courage in the Ordinary
In the grand narrative of God’s story, sometimes it’s the seemingly small acts of obedience that wield enormous power. Today, we reflect on the midwives Shiphrah and Puah, who defied Pharaoh’s orders and chose to fear God over man. Their fearless decision to save the Hebrew infants altered the course of history and set the stage for Israel’s deliverance. Worldly wisdom dictates that power belongs to the ruling and mighty, but God’s kingdom often reveals His strength through humble vessels engaged in everyday acts.
Exodus 1:17 tells us, “But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live.” This singular act of defiance was rooted not in grandiosity, but in ordinary, yet courageous, faith. In the economy of God’s kingdom, courage often manifests in daily choices, in the routine decisions to honor God’s commands over societal pressures.
Let this be an encouragement: your ordinary acts of faith—when done in reverence to God—can also be part of His extraordinary plan. As believers, we are called to step out in boldness, trusting that God multiplies our small seeds of faith into bounteous harvests for His glory.
Biblical Points
1. God Honors Courage Over Compliance
Scripture: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” — Proverbs 1:7 (ESV)
Reflection: The midwives’ fear of God led them to wisdom and courage. To fear God is to prioritize His will, fostering a strengthened resolve to resist evil even within our everyday responsibilities.
2. Divine Strength in Weakness
Scripture: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
Reflection: God’s strength is perfected in moments when we feel small or ill-equipped. Like the midwives, we discover His power in our admitted inadequacy and dependence on His grace to act boldly.
3. The Ripple Effect of Faithful Acts
Scripture: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
Reflection: Every act of faithful obedience is significant in God’s kingdom. He has prepared in advance the path for our decisions to influence eternity, just as He did with the midwives.
Reflection Questions
1. Why do you think God values ordinary acts of faith over worldly acclaim and power?
2. What “ordinary” acts can you commit to today that exhibit obedience to God?
3. How can you cultivate a heart that fears God more than the opinion of others?
Memory Verse
“But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live.” — Exodus 1:17 (ESV)
Closing Encouragement and Prayer
Today, take courage in the knowledge that God uses ordinary acts of faith for extraordinary purposes. Embrace humility, knowing that when you step out in obedience, you align your actions with an eternal narrative written by God Himself. Let us pray for divine courage and wisdom to flood your everyday decisions.
Father, thank You for reminding us of the power found in small acts of faith. May we, like the midwives, honor You above all else in our daily life. Give us courage to act in righteousness, trusting in Your sovereign plan and provision. Amen.
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This discussion was modified 2 weeks ago by
Dennis.
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This discussion was modified 2 weeks ago by
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