How can we apply the midwives' example of fearing God in our lives? The Setting: Pharaoh’s Command, God’s Command Pharaoh ordered Israel’s midwives to kill every Hebrew boy at birth. “But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had told them; they let the boys live” (Exodus 1:17). Verse 21 sums up the outcome: “And because the midwives feared God, He gave them families of their own.” Their reverent fear made them choose divine authority over human tyranny, and God honored them openly. What Scripture Means by “Fear of God” • Awe-filled reverence that moves the heart to obey (Proverbs 9:10). • Hatred of evil and all that opposes the Lord (Proverbs 8:13). • Willingness to lose everything rather than dishonor His Name (Daniel 3:16-18). • Confidence that God sees, remembers, and rewards (Hebrews 11:6). Lessons Drawn From the Midwives • They recognized that God’s command over life outranks any civil decree (Acts 5:29). • Their fear was active, not passive—they intervened to save helpless infants. • They did not broadcast their heroism; Scripture quietly records it and God Himself rewarded it. • Their reward—families of their own—shows that God takes note of secret faithfulness (Matthew 6:4). Living Out God-Fearing Courage Today Choose God’s Word over cultural pressure • Stand for the sanctity of life from conception to natural death (Psalm 139:13-16). • Speak truth in love when the surrounding culture dismisses biblical morality (Ephesians 4:25). Protect the vulnerable • Use your voice, resources, and influence to defend those who cannot defend themselves (Proverbs 31:8-9). • Support ministries that rescue, shelter, or advocate for the oppressed. Practice uncompromising integrity • Refuse dishonest gain even when it costs promotions or friendships (Proverbs 11:3). • Keep commitments and let your “yes” mean yes (Matthew 5:37). Cultivate secret devotion that fuels public courage • Daily Scripture intake shapes thinking to fear God rather than man (Joshua 1:8). • Private worship anchors the soul when public opposition mounts (Psalm 112:1,7-8). Rest in God’s approval, not man’s applause • Remember that “the fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high” (Proverbs 29:25). • Let eternal reward outweigh temporary acceptance (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Blessings Tied to Fearing God • Protection and provision: “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him” (Psalm 34:7). • Steadfast mercy: “As high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His loving devotion toward those who fear Him” (Psalm 103:11). • Enduring legacy: “He will bless those who fear the LORD—small and great alike” (Psalm 115:13). • Eternal security: “Fear God and give Him glory… worship Him who made heaven and earth” (Revelation 14:7). Like Shiphrah and Puah, believers today can fear God above all, protect life, walk in integrity, and trust the Lord to honor their obedience in His perfect timing. |
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