from-crucible-to-service-or-the-long-game

DAILY BREAD SHARE OF THE DAY

July 28
The Long Game

Bible in a Year:

Psalms 46–48
Acts 28

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh.”
Exodus 6:1
comment
journal
share
give
Today's Scripture & Insight:

When believers in Jesus in David's country suffered oppression, their farm animals were killed. Having lost their livelihood, David's family scattered to various countries. For nine years, he existed in a refugee camp far from his family. He knew God was with him, but during the separation, two family members died. He grew despondent.

Long ago, another people group faced brutal oppression. So God appointed Moses to lead those people—the Israelites—out of Egypt. Moses reluctantly agreed. But when he approached Pharaoh, the Egyptian ruler only intensified the oppression (Exodus 5:6–9). “I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go,” he said (v. 2). The people complained to Moses, who complained to God (vv. 20–23).

In the end, God freed the Israelites and they got the freedom they wanted—but in His way and timing. He plays a long game, teaching us about His character and preparing us for something greater.

David made good use of his years in a refugee camp, earning a master’s degree from a New Delhi seminary. Now he’s a pastor to his own people—refugees like him who have found a new home. “My story as a refugee forms the crucible for leading as a servant,” he says. In his testimony, David cites Moses’ song in Exodus 15:2: “The Lord is my strength and my defense.” And today, He’s ours as well.

By: Tim Gustafson

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel SSG Michael Noll Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen Cpl Vic Burk SGT Charlie Lee] Sgt (Join to see) PV2 Larry Sellnow SPC (Join to see) Amn Dale Preisach SGT Ruben Lozada 1SG Patrick Burke PO2 Marco Monsalve Lt Col Charlie Brown Maj Kim Patterson] SFC Ralph E Kelley PV2 Scott M. PO1 Lyndon Thomas SPC (Join to see) SSG William Jones Maj Ronald Scarpa