How can we apply Jethro's acknowledgment of God's deliverance in our daily lives? Setting the Scene Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law and priest of Midian, hears how the LORD brought Israel out of Egypt. Though far from the Red Sea, he recognizes that God’s saving work is real, historic, and worthy of response. Key Verse “Now Jethro, the priest of Midian, Moses’ father-in-law, heard of all that God had done for Moses and for His people Israel, that the LORD had brought Israel out of Egypt.” (Exodus 18:1) What Jethro Recognized • God’s acts are concrete, not symbolic—He “brought Israel out,” a literal rescue. • Deliverance is worth telling: the news travels from the wilderness to Midian. • Hearing demands acknowledgment; Jethro later blesses God (18:10-11). • Salvation is communal: “for Moses and for His people Israel.” Why This Matters Today • Hebrews 13:8—“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” The God who split the sea still intervenes. • Psalm 107:2—“Let the redeemed of the LORD say so.” Verbal testimony honors His deliverance. • Revelation 12:11—believers “overcame by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Acknowledging rescue strengthens faith and overcomes fear. Practical Ways to Acknowledge God’s Deliverance 1. Remember regularly ‑ Keep a journal of answered prayers and turning points. ‑ Celebrate spiritual birthdays—the day God saved you, healed you, or provided. 2. Speak it out ‑ Share God’s interventions in casual conversations, not only formal settings. ‑ Use social media to highlight His faithfulness, steering clear of self-promotion. 3. Gather witnesses ‑ Invite family or friends to recount together what the Lord has done, as Moses later recounts to Jethro (18:8). ‑ At meals, let each person name one recent evidence of deliverance or provision. 4. Align decisions with gratitude ‑ Jethro’s acknowledgment leads him to worship and offer sacrifices (18:12). Let deliverance shape spending, serving, and time management. ‑ Romans 12:1 calls for living sacrifices; gratitude fuels obedience. 5. Counsel from overflow ‑ Because Jethro grasped God’s rescue, he could advise Moses wisely about leadership (18:17-23). ‑ When we recognize God’s works, our counsel to others becomes anchored in His power, not mere opinion. A Life Pattern Worth Sharing Like Jethro, hear the reports of God’s mighty acts, let them sink deep, speak them aloud, and shape daily choices around them. Each acknowledgment turns deliverance into ongoing discipleship, keeping hearts awake to the God who still brings His people out. |
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