Exodus 18:1-12

Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, is described as “the priest of Midian.” Pastor Dave explained that many scholars believe Jethro knew something of Yahweh, the God of Israel, and worshipped Him, but as one god among many. After hearing Moses’ account of how God delivered Israel from Pharaoh and the Egyptians and from hardships in the wilderness, Jethro believed that Yahweh is the one and only true God.

God had a purpose for His mighty acts of deliverance: that Pharaoh and the Egyptians, the Israelites, and all people, really, would know “I am the LORD.” This is the fundamental issue of life for every human being. When God asserts and demonstrates His supremacy over all of creation, how does a person respond? Does he, like the Egyptians, wish God would just go away? Does he, like Pharaoh, try to fight against God? Or does he, like the Israelites and like Jethro, believe and worship? Lord, clarify our thinking. Remind us to keep the truth of who You are in its proper place – first and foremost, before all the other issues and controversies of life.

Dave challenged us to focus on this primary and ultimate truth claim of the Bible, first as hearers. He noted that the Israelites saw Yahweh’s works and believed He was Lord (4:21,12:27,14:31), but when things got tough, they thought it might be better to return to Egypt. Today, we live in times of adversity. Will we continue to believe the truth and hold fast to it, or will we turn aside – have we turned aside – to other saviors and solutions? Ask the Lord to keep us steadfast in His truth.

Dave also called us to be tellers of the truth, to proclaim our triune God to others. Lord, kindle a fire in us to proclaim the truth. Give us courage to speak up for truth, unafraid of those who refuse and reject. Keep us from judging in our own minds who will believe and who will not and then parceling out the truth accordingly. Show us how to speak truth – a message that honors You – in a manner that honors You, with gentleness and respect.

Calvary Family

Calvary’s elders have a regularly-scheduled meeting this Thursday. Remember to pray for our church leaders, asking God to open their ears to His voice and to give them great wisdom.

Tomorrow our new president will be inaugurated. As an act of obedience to the Lord, and regardless of your political persuasions, pray for our new president, Joe Biden. I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior … (1 Timothy 2:1-3)

In Christ,
Carol Gilbert
Calvary Community Church of Brea