DEVOTIONAL: Exodus 1:1-14, Set Free for Service

THE GOSPEL OF EXODUS

Exodus 1:1-14

Set Free for Service

Below you will find a 4-day Bible Reading Plan and Devotional Guide based on this week’s sermon’s themes.

You will also find a Dinner Table Discussion Guide to keep the conversation going in your family.

Day 1: God's Covenant Faithfulness

Reading: Genesis 15:1-21

Devotional:

God's covenant with Abraham reminds us of His unwavering faithfulness. Even when circumstances seem dire, as they did for the Israelites in Egypt, God remembers His promises. Reflect on how God has been faithful in your life, especially during challenging times. How can you cultivate trust in God's promises, even when fulfillment seems distant? Today, identify a promise from Scripture that speaks to your current situation and meditate on God's faithfulness to keep it.

Day 2: From Bondage to Freedom

Reading: Exodus 1:1-14, John 8:31-36

Devotional:

The Israelites' enslavement in Egypt parallels our bondage to sin. Just as God heard their cries and planned their deliverance, He sent Jesus to free us from sin's tyranny. Consider areas in your life where you still feel enslaved - perhaps to fear, addiction, or worldly expectations. How can you embrace the freedom Christ offers? Take time to confess any areas where you're struggling and ask God to help you walk in the freedom He provides.

Day 3: True Worship and Service

Reading: Exodus 8:1-15, Romans 12:1-2

Devotional:

God's purpose in freeing the Israelites was for them to serve and worship Him. Similarly, our salvation isn't just about escaping punishment, but about entering into a relationship of joyful service to God. Examine your motivations for serving God. Are you serving out of obligation or joy? How can you reframe your daily activities as acts of worship? Choose one routine task today and perform it as an offering to God, with gratitude and intentionality.

Day 4: God's Presence in Suffering

Reading: Exodus 2:23-25, 2 Corinthians 1:3-7

Devotional:

The Israelites' bitter servitude in Egypt seemed to contradict God's promises, yet He was always aware of their suffering. In our trials, we too may feel forgotten, but God is ever-present. Reflect on a time when you felt God's comfort in suffering. How did that experience shape your faith? If you're currently facing hardship, write a prayer expressing your pain to God, trusting in His compassionate presence.

Day 5: The Journey to True Freedom

Reading: Galatians 5:1-15, John 8:31-36

Devotional:

True freedom isn't the absence of all authority, but submission to the right authority - God Himself. The world often equates freedom with complete autonomy, but Scripture reveals that real liberty comes through serving God. Consider areas in your life where you've been seeking freedom apart from God. How might embracing God's "restrictions" actually lead to greater fulfillment? Today, choose one area where you can align your choices more closely with God's will, trusting that His way leads to true freedom.

Dinner Table Discussion Questions

Read: Exodus 1:1-14

1.  In Exodus 1:1-5, why does Moses start by listing the sons of Israel? What is he reminding the readers about?


2. How does the Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12, 15) set the foundation for what happens in Exodus? What are the general promises and what parts of those promises are fulfilled or will be soon? Land, Seed, Blessing


3.  God promised Abraham that his descendants would be enslaved for 400 years (Genesis 15:13). How does this change your view of Israel’s suffering in Egypt?


4.  What are some parallels between Israel’s deliverance from Egypt and our spiritual deliverance through Christ?


5. What does the Hebrew word ʿābad teach us about the real meaning of work, service, and worship?


6.  How does the contrast between serving Pharaoh and serving God help us understand the true nature of freedom?


7.  Why is it important that God didn’t just free Israel from someone but also for someone? How does that apply to our lives today?


8.  What are some “false masters” people serve today, and how do those lead to bitterness instead of joy?