What is the meaning of Exodus 18:9? And Jethro rejoiced Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, responds with wholehearted joy when he hears what God has done. • Joy is the natural, God-honoring response when we see His mighty acts (Luke 15:6–10; Psalm 118:24). • Jethro’s rejoicing models Romans 12:15—“Rejoice with those who rejoice”—inviting us to celebrate others’ victories as our own. • His reaction underscores that God’s works are not only for Israel; they’re a testimony to the watching world (Psalm 67:3–4). over all the good things The text stresses “all,” reminding us that God’s goodness is comprehensive. • Every provision—manna, water, guidance, protection—counts as a “good thing” (Psalm 103:2; Nehemiah 9:20–21). • James 1:17 declares that “every good and perfect gift is from above,” encouraging believers to trace blessings back to their Source. • Listing God’s acts nurtures gratitude and guards against forgetfulness (Deuteronomy 6:12). the LORD had done for Israel The focus remains squarely on the LORD (YHWH), Israel’s covenant God. • His deeds reveal both power and faithfulness (Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 105:1–5). • The verse invites rehearsal of the story—plagues, Passover, Red Sea—so that future generations know “it is the LORD who has done this” (Joshua 4:24). • Testimony stirs faith; seeing what God did for Israel strengthens our trust that He works on our behalf as well (Hebrews 13:8). whom He had rescued from the hand of the Egyptians Rescue is the centerpiece of Exodus and a pattern for salvation. • God literally “snatched” Israel from slavery (Exodus 6:6; 14:30), proving His supremacy over every oppressor. • This historical deliverance foreshadows Christ delivering believers “from the domain of darkness” (Colossians 1:13) and sets the stage for the Passover-Lamb imagery fulfilled in Jesus (1 Corinthians 5:7). • Remembering the rescue keeps worship fresh and obedience motivated (Deuteronomy 26:8–11). summary Exodus 18:9 captures Jethro’s joyful response to God’s comprehensive goodness, covenant faithfulness, and mighty rescue of Israel from Egypt. His reaction invites us to rejoice, count every blessing, recount God’s deeds, and celebrate the ultimate deliverance we have in Christ—living daily in grateful, obedient worship. |
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