God beloonde de twee vrouwen. Omdat ze diep ontzag voor God hadden, gaf Hij hun allebei een gezin. En het volk werd steeds groter en machtiger.
Wat betekent dit?
Exodus 1:21 tells us that because the midwives feared God and disobeyed the Egyptian king's order to kill the Hebrew baby boys, God rewarded them by making them houses. The verse does not specify who is speaking, but it emphasizes the reward for faithfulness.
Uitgelegd voor kinderen
Imagine you have a friend who always tells the truth, even when it's hard. God likes that and gives your friend a special gift. That's like what happened to the midwives in this story. They were brave and honest, so God made sure they had nice homes.
Historische achtergrond
The book of Exodus, including chapter 1, was likely written by Moses around 1440-1400 BCE. The audience was the Israelites who were in exile, and the cultural setting was the oppression of the Hebrews by the Egyptians.
Toepassing voor vandaag
Consider a scenario where you witness a colleague taking credit for another's work. By choosing to report the truth, despite potential backlash, you are showing integrity and faithfulness to God, much like the midwives. Your act of honesty might lead to unexpected blessings in your professional life.
God rewarded the midwives for their faithfulness and courage in disobeying Pharaoh's order to kill the Hebrew baby boys. This reward symbolizes God's provision and blessing for their righteous actions.
How does this verse apply to modern Christians?
Modern Christians can apply this verse by remembering that faithfulness and courage in the face of opposition are rewarded by God. It encourages us to stand for what is right, even if it means going against the current.
What does it mean to 'fear God' in this context?
To 'fear God' in this context means to respect and obey God's commands out of reverence and love, even when it conflicts with the demands of worldly authorities.
What can we learn about God from this verse?
We can learn that God rewards faithfulness and courage. He is a God who sees and remembers our actions and is willing to provide blessings and protection for those who stand for righteousness.