Moment in the Word

Exodus 12:23-24 For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you. And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons forever.
 
A plague swept through the land of Egypt where Israel was enslaved; however, God provided a very detailed plan for his people's deliverance... if they were willing to obey. After each household killed a lamb and painted its blood on the doorposts and lintel of their home, the family was to remain indoors overnight until the scourge ended the next morning.
 
Knowing human nature, doubtless there were skeptics who grumbled that the plan was ridiculous. Although the Bible does not include instances of disobedience, still the possibility of scattered noncompliance seems likely, which adds a tragic aspect to the story knowing that all the Israelites had to do was cooperate and obey. But people will be people.
 
Momentarily ignoring the human element, let's look at what God promised, "When I see the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, I the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you."
 
While walking side by side with the destroyer through Egypt, God vowed to physically stand across the doorway and block the plague's access to the home, if the residents first did what they were supposed to do.
 
The thought of God using His body to protect His people reminds me of a promise made to Father Abraham four hundred years before, "After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward." Genesis 15:1
 
God never promised that plagues, storms, or adversity would not come; however, He did say, "If you let Me, I will be your shield, and I will be your defense!"
 
Contrary to what some preachers and TV evangelists claim, Jesus (who never owned a pillow on which to lay His head - Luke 9:58) did not promise fancy houses, fast cars, or fabulous wealth. Yet, God surrendered His Beloved Son on Calvary's Cross to be our personal eternal reward rather than "treasures on earth where moths and rust corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal." Matthew 6:19
 
As sure as God makes little green apples, adversity and necessity will come to each of us, but the Almighty has promised, "Fear not, I am your shield, and your exceeding great reward!"

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