Growing through affliction

“But the more they afflicted them the more they multiplied and grew….” – Exodus 1v12

God greatly blessed His people Israel in the land of Egypt. In the time since Joseph Israel was “fruitful, increased abundantly, waxed exceedingly mighty, and the land was full of them.” Location is never a hindrance to the blessing of God.

However the day came when a Pharaoh arose who “knew not Joseph.” He was afraid of this nation of foreigners in his land and saw them as a threat to his people so he decided to make slaves out of them to keep them under his thumb.

God had other plans for the nation of Israel. We read in verse 12 that the more they were afflicted the more they grew! How frustrating this must have been for the Pharaoh. The harder he tried to wipe them out the stronger they grew! God’s plans for His people were not going to be suppressed by a mere human leader.

James 1 reminds us that trials are still meant for our growth. No matter how trials are meant by those who may impose them, God has a greater purpose, to teach is patience that leads to maturity. We saw that we Joseph, we see it here with the nation of Israel, and we also see it on our lives. May we see each affliction which comes into our lives as an example to multiply and grow in our walk for our precious Lord.