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Exodus-22

Becoming a People of Faith: A Devotional Study on Exodus 22​

Introduction​

The book of Exodus contains a scintillating narrative, from Moses' burning bush encounter with God to God's liberating the Israelites from captivity. In Exodus 22, we find a collection of laws that God gave to the Israelites as they transitioned from slaves to free men. These laws present a moral and spiritual foundation for this people, setting a blueprint for social, moral, and religious justice. Let's dive into this chapter today and explore how these laws can help us grow in our faith.

Section 1: The Laws' Context (Exodus 22:1-4)​

Devotional Thought: The laws contained in Exodus 22 are part of the Book of the Covenant, given to the Israelites as they entered into a covenant relationship with God. The stipulations set here gave concrete expression to the moral and religious obligations that flowed from that relationship. Consider how your relationship with God shapes your moral and religious responsibilities.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does your relationship with God shape your daily choices and convictions?
  • Are there actions or attitudes that you need to align with your relationship with God?

Section 2: The Laws on People and Property (Exodus 22:5-27)​

Devotional Thought: The laws in this section focused on caring for people and their property. The third commandment teaches us to strive for honesty in our commerce. Today, let's commit to honest and faithful business dealings.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you apply honesty and integrity in your daily transactions?
  • Is there an area in your life where honesty could be improved?

Additionally, the laws against theft and harm (Exodus 22:1-4) teach us to care for our neighbors and their possessions. Today, let's reflect on how we can be good neighbors and stewards of others' property.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you be a faithful steward of the possessions of others in your community?
  • Is there a particular neighbor or group in your community you could bless with extra attention and care?

Section 3: The Laws on Slaves and Responsibility (Exodus 22:20-23)​

God's laws regarding the treatment of slaves served as a moral standard for treating others with dignity and caring for the oppressed. Today, let's reflect on how we can care for and show kindness to those in our communities who may be oppressed or marginalized.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are there individuals or communities within your sphere of influence that may be oppressed or marginalized?
  • How can you extend compassion and kindness to those who may be oppressed?

Section 4: Responsibility and Authority (Exodus 22:24-27)​

As God's people, we have a responsibility and authority to honor our Creator by following His commands. These laws served as an expression of our faithfulness and obedience to God. Today, let's recommit ourselves to honoring God by following His commands.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you view your responsibility and authority to honor God through obedience to His commands?
  • In what ways can you cultivate a deeper awareness of your Christian responsibility to honor God through obedience to His commands?

Conclusion:​

As we end this devotional journey through Exodus 22, let's reflect on the fundamental role these laws played as we transitioned from being slaves to being free men under God's sovereignty. May we become a people whose lives are defined by faithfulness, integrity, and love for our fellow men as exemplified by God's Laws. Today, commit yourself to honoring God and being faithful to His commandments.