How does Psalm 105:38 connect with God's deliverance of Israel in Exodus? Psalm 105:38 — the snapshot “Egypt rejoiced when they departed, for the dread of Israel had fallen on them.” What we see in the verse • Egypt’s reaction: joy mixed with urgent relief • Reason for that reaction: “the dread of Israel,” meaning a holy fear of Israel’s God • Timing: the very moment Israel walks out in freedom Echoes of Exodus 12:31-36 • Exodus 12:33 — “The Egyptians urged the people to send them out of the land in haste.” • Exodus 12:35-36 — Israel plunders Egypt as the Lord grants them favor. • Parallel: the same nation that once oppressed Israel now begs them to go, mirroring Psalm 105:38’s “rejoicing” at their departure. Why Egypt was terrified (Exodus 7–12) • Ten plagues dismantled Egypt’s gods: – Nile to blood (Hapi), – darkness (Ra), – death of firstborn (Pharaoh’s claimed deity). • Exodus 9:16 — God’s purpose: “so that My name may be proclaimed in all the earth.” • By the final plague, Egypt knew the Lord’s sovereignty; Psalm 105:38 summarizes that awe in one line. Deliverance on God’s terms • Israel leaves “with silver and gold” (Psalm 105:37; Exodus 12:35-36). • None stumbled or lagged (Psalm 105:37), highlighting health and readiness. • Cloud and fire (Psalm 105:39; Exodus 13:21-22) immediately follow, showing continuous guidance. From slavery to worship • Exodus 3:12 — God promised Moses, “You will worship God on this mountain.” • Psalm 105 steps back and traces that arc: covenant (vv. 8-15), miracles (vv. 16-36), exodus (vv. 37-38). • The verse links deliverance to destiny; Egypt’s fear makes room for Israel’s freedom to serve the Lord. Key takeaways • God’s judgments on Egypt were acts of covenant faithfulness, not random wrath. • The same event that crushed Egypt lifted Israel, proving God’s ability to reverse power structures. • Psalm 105:38 serves as a poetic headline for Exodus 12:31-36, reminding every generation that God finishes what He starts (Philippians 1:6). |
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