How does God's favor in Exodus 11:3 inspire confidence in His promises today? Setting the scene Exodus 11 records God’s final announcement of judgment on Egypt: the death of the firstborn. Nestled in that sober moment is a surprising statement of blessing: “And the LORD gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover, the man Moses was highly esteemed in the land of Egypt by Pharaoh’s officials and by the people.” (Exodus 11:3) God’s favor toward Israel shows up at the very doorstep of judgment. He is simultaneously executing justice on Egypt and extending grace to His covenant people. That snapshot offers rich encouragement for trusting every promise He makes today. Key observations from Exodus 11:3 • The favor is divinely sourced: “the LORD gave.” • The favor is broad: it rests on “the people” as a whole and on Moses individually. • The favor is timely: it appears right before the hardest night Israel will face. • The favor overturns hostility: the same Egyptians who oppressed Israel now honor them. • The favor has practical impact: it results in Egypt freely handing over silver, gold, and garments (Exodus 12:35-36). Principles that inspire confidence 1. God’s favor is intentional, not accidental – Psalm 5:12: “For You bless the righteous, O LORD; You surround him with favor like a shield.” – Because He willed it for Israel, we can trust He wills it for His people today. 2. God’s favor transcends circumstances – Israel was still enslaved when this favor arrived. – Romans 8:31: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” Favor is not canceled by opposition. 3. God’s favor fulfills His prior promises – Genesis 15:14 foretold Israel would leave Egypt “with great possessions.” Exodus 11:3 is the fulfillment mechanism. – Numbers 23:19: “Has He said, and will He not do it?” His track record underwrites every promise now. 4. God’s favor equips His people for what lies ahead – The plunder funded the tabernacle (Exodus 25:1-8). – Philippians 4:19: “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” 5. God’s favor draws even unbelievers to acknowledge His work – Pharaoh’s officials respected Moses; later, some Egyptians joined the exodus (Exodus 12:38). – Proverbs 16:7: “When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Connecting Exodus 11:3 to God’s promises today • Salvation: Just as favor preceded deliverance from Egypt, grace precedes our rescue in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Provision: If God furnished silver and gold in a slave camp, He can meet everyday needs now (Matthew 6:31-33). • Guidance: Moses’ esteem opened doors for leading Israel out; God still raises influence for His purposes (Psalm 32:8). • Protection: Favor acted like a shield in a hostile land; believers stand secure in Christ’s protection (John 10:28-29). • Witness: God’s favor turns heads, providing openings to testify of His goodness (1 Peter 2:12). Living it out – Expect God to honor His Word, because He always has. – Look for His favor in unlikely places—workplaces, classrooms, even antagonistic settings. – Receive His provision with gratitude, recognizing it may carry purpose beyond personal comfort. – Walk confidently; His favor is a present reality, not a past relic. – Reflect His favor to others through generosity and mercy. Key takeaways • The same God who granted Israel favor in Egypt remains unchanged (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). • Every promise is backed by His unbreakable character (2 Corinthians 1:20). • Therefore, we can face challenges, uncertainties, and spiritual battles with settled assurance: God’s favor today is as real and reliable as it was on the eve of the exodus. |
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