I started to dig into the Book of Exodus for our fall study in our church women’s ministry. I’m excited to hear from God and to see what He will do among His daughters as we study together.
Today, I planned to read a bit but had to stop at verses 6 and 7 in the first chapter to marvel at the covenant language there.
Now Joseph and all his brothers and all that generation died, but the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful; they multiplied greatly, increased in numbers and became so numerous that the land was filled with them.
Exodus 1:6-7
Covenant Language in Genesis
God said to Adam and Eve in creation, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground” Genesis 1:28.
After the flood, God said to Noah, “Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth” Genesis 9:1.
And then to Abraham when God initiated the covenant of circumcision, “I will make you very fruitful; I will make nations of you, and kings will come from you” Genesis 17:6.
Again, to Abraham, when God promises to bless Ishmael, “I will make him fruitful and will greatly increase his numbers. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation” Genesis 17:20.
Isaac used the same words when he blessed Jacob, “May God Almighty bless you and make you fruitful and increase your numbers until you become a community of peoples” Genesis 28:3.
When God changes Jacob’s name to Israel, again He uses this same covenant language, “I am God Almighty; be fruitful and increase in number. A nation and a community of nations will come from you, and kings will be among your descendants” Genesis 35:11.
The beginning of the Book of Exodus echoes the faithfulness of God to fulfill His promises!
An Old Hymn resonates
Standing on the promises that cannot fail.
Russell Kelso Carter (1886)
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.
Prayer
Father, you who spoke our world into being
And whose word is sure and true–
Always accomplishing your purposes–
Help us to trust You, believing the words
You have given us, knowing we can rely on
Fully depend on and rest in Your promises!
Amen.
