How can we apply the midwives' example of obedience to our daily lives? Exodus 1:20 in Focus “So God was good to the midwives, and the people multiplied and became even more numerous.” What the Midwives Actually Did • Defied Pharaoh’s murderous order (Exodus 1:16–17) • Acted because they “feared God” (v. 17) • Received tangible blessing from the Lord (vv. 20–21) Core Lessons We Can Draw • Fear of God anchors courage – Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” • Obedience may require civil disobedience – Acts 5:29: “We must obey God rather than men.” • God notices and rewards quiet faithfulness – 1 Samuel 2:30b: “Those who honor Me I will honor.” Daily-Life Applications • Workplace integrity – Refuse dishonest shortcuts even if pressured by superiors. • Family leadership – Model truth and righteousness for children, regardless of cultural trends. • Community engagement – Stand for life, justice, and biblical morality in conversations and civic duties. • Personal decision-making – Filter every choice through Scripture first, convenience second. When Obedience Is Costly • Expect opposition (2 Timothy 3:12). • Remember God’s presence: Psalm 118:6, “The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid.” • Trust His provision, as He “was good to the midwives.” Promises That Sustain Courage • Isaiah 41:10 — God strengthens and upholds. • John 14:21 — Obedience draws us into deeper fellowship with Christ. • James 1:12 — A crown of life awaits those who persevere under trial. Quick Action Steps 1. Identify one area this week where obeying God conflicts with outside pressure. 2. Pray for wisdom, then choose obedience before the moment of testing arrives. 3. Speak truth graciously, not defiantly (Colossians 4:6). 4. Keep a record of God’s faithfulness; celebrate small evidences of His “goodness.” 5. Share a testimony of obedience’s reward to encourage another believer. |