Fulfillment

 Acts 4   Psalm 126  Exodus 11-12

As I read through Acts 4 today, I am reminded how often there is a demand that the truth be silenced when it threatens the power needed for control. As I read the story of Peter and John, the conflict with segments of the community power and the debate on how to silence them without losing the support of the people of their community I thought how little has changed.

The next thing I noticed is that Peter stood up for what he believed and noted who he would trust in making decisions where and when to speak. He doesn’t demand his way, fight those that would oppose him or debate with them. He simply leaves, goes to those who understand and trust as he does and look for ways to effectively deliver the message. His prayer was show us the way and we will put our trust in you Lord.

Psalm 126 reminds us that God delivers on his promises and brings joy to those who trust in him. We reap what we sow in so many ways.

Continuing through the story of Exodus in chapters 11 and 12 God once again shows that ultimately, He is the one in control. The power struggle with Pharaoh continues and we need to look carefully at the instructions given to Moses that require obedience in order to receive the protection and blessings of the Lord. The clear distinction between the people of God and Pharaoh is illustrated in this passage a number of times. I was reminded that that leader that demands the power and obedience to him will lead the people to destruction as well. The cost of disobedience should never be minimized. Nor should the fulfillment of God’s Word be doubted. Here was a promise that begins to be fulfilled in 430 years.