How can we stand against unjust commands, as the midwives did in Exodus 1:15? Standing Against Unjust Commands – Lessons from Exodus 1:15 “Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah, ‘When you help the Hebrew women give birth and see them on the delivery stool, if it is a son, kill him; but if it is a daughter, let her live.’ ” (Exodus 1:15-16) Why the Midwives Defied Pharaoh • They feared God more than a king (Exodus 1:17). • They treasured innocent life, recognizing every child as God’s creation (Psalm 139:13-16). • They trusted divine reward over earthly favor: “Since the midwives feared God, He gave them families of their own.” (Exodus 1:21). Foundational Principles for Us • The fear of the LORD anchors moral courage (Proverbs 1:7; Luke 12:4-5). • God’s commands outrank human decrees: “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29). • Human dignity is non-negotiable—each person bears God’s image (Genesis 1:27). Obedience Over Compliance in Scripture • Daniel’s friends refused to bow (Daniel 3). • Daniel kept praying despite the edict (Daniel 6). • The apostles continued preaching after strict orders to stop (Acts 4:18-20). Wise, Peaceful Resistance • The midwives simply “did not do as the king of Egypt had told them” (Exodus 1:17). • Jesus counselled, “Be as shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves.” (Matthew 10:16). • Avoid vengeance; leave judgment to God (Romans 12:19-21). God Vindicates the Faithful • He protected and prospered Shiphrah and Puah (Exodus 1:20-21). • “Even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.” (1 Peter 3:14). • Eternal reward outweighs temporal loss (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Practical Steps to Stand Firm Today • Saturate your mind with Scripture; know what God commands. • Seek courage daily through the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 6:10-18). • Cultivate a community of believers who stand together (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Use lawful avenues to oppose injustice, yet accept potential cost (1 Peter 4:19). • Show Christlike love even to oppressors, pointing them to truth (Romans 12:20-21). Living Brightly in a Dark Culture “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world.” (Philippians 2:14-15) Hold to God’s Word, value every life He creates, and trust Him to honor your faithful stand—just as He honored two brave midwives long ago. |
    |