Dear Family,
Today is Monday, May 6, 2024. It is Day 9 and it is Day 2 of Week 2 in our Count to Pentecost.
Even though we do not know the number of Egyptians who saw the signs and wonders during the 10 plagues, we do understand that Egypt was very populated. The land of Egypt had been devastated. The lives of the Egyptians were turned upside down, but most of the Egyptians did not acknowledge and turn to the true God. Only a few Egyptians joined the Israelites as they left Egyptian bondage. The Bible infers they were among the “mixed multitude.”
Exodus 12: 37-38 (37) And the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand on foot that were men, beside children. (38) And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle.
It is easy for us in hindsight to see the errors of the Egyptians, as well as the ancient Israelites. Yet, we must remember that God had not called them. It was not time for God to favor the Egyptians.
As we contemplate important concepts regarding God-level prerogatives, let us remember with great positive emphasis that God‛s calling and His favor is so very special. God did not choose to favor the Egyptians thousands of years ago. However, He did choose to show specific favor to the children of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. And, the time will come for those who died in ancient Egypt! Egypt‛s time will also come as God‛s salvation plan unfolds for all of mankind.
God has a time line He follows for when He favors specific individuals. He has a time line for when He calls them and reveals specific things regarding Himself and His plans. Yes!
God keeps secrets! It‛s a God thing! Consider that even the angels have desired to look into many of God‛s secrets.
1 Peter 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Spirit sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
And, we get to know much of God‛s plan now. We are favored! We are blessed!
Deuteronomy 29:29 The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.
Romans 16:25 Now to Him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began.
During this time of year we have an excellent opportunity to remind ourselves to enjoy God‛s favor and appreciate His calling, with all of its wondrous ramifications. Let us begin to actually experience this wonderful reality at the deepest possible levels of our awareness.
Ben Faulkner, Pastor
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