How can understanding God's judgment in Psalm 135:8 deepen our faith today? Setting the Verse in View “He struck down the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast.” – Psalm 135:8 Tracing the Event Behind the Verse • The line recalls the tenth plague (Exodus 11–12). • God’s act was decisive, public judgment on Pharaoh’s rebellion. • Israel was spared through the Passover lamb’s blood (Exodus 12:12-13). What the Judgment Shows About God • Sovereignty – He rules nations and kings (Psalm 135:5-6). • Holiness – Sin meets real consequences (Romans 1:18). • Faithfulness – He kept His promise to free Israel (Genesis 15:13-14). • Power to Deliver – Judgment on Egypt meant redemption for His people (Exodus 12:51). Healthy Fear That Deepens Faith • Reverent awe grows when we remember God’s might (Hebrews 12:28-29). • Confidence rises: the God who crushed Egypt still guards His own (Psalm 46:1-2). • Obedience gains urgency, knowing God takes sin seriously (1 Peter 1:15-17). Judgment and Redemption: Two Sides, One Purpose • The same night brought death to Egypt and life to Israel. • The Passover lamb foreshadowed Christ, “our Passover lamb” (1 Corinthians 5:7). • Trust in Jesus’ blood exempts believers from final wrath (John 5:24; Romans 5:9). Strength for Daily Living • Assurance in trials: God can overturn any oppressor (Psalm 135:10-12). • Motivation for holiness: rescued people live differently (Titus 2:14). • Fuel for gratitude: salvation cost the Firstborn of heaven (Colossians 1:18-20). • Zeal for witness: warning and hope belong together (2 Corinthians 5:10-11, 14). Looking Ahead to the Ultimate Judgment • Egypt’s plague previews the great white throne (Revelation 20:11-15). • Believers rest: “There is now no condemnation” (Romans 8:1). • Knowing the Judge is also Savior secures unshakable hope (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10). Walking Out the Truth Today • Remember the seriousness of sin and the wonder of grace every time you read Psalm 135:8. • Praise God for righteous judgment that upholds His glory and protects His people. • Live confidently, obediently, and gratefully, anchored in the God who judged Egypt and redeemed Israel, and who, through Christ, has redeemed you. |
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