Exodus 2:5-10, “The daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the Nile … and she saw the basket among the reeds … When she opened it, she saw the child, and behold, the boy was crying. And she had pity on him and said, ‘This is one of the Hebrews’ children.’ Then his sister said to Pharaoh’s daughter, ‘Shall I go and call a nurse for you from the Hebrew women that she may nurse the child for you?’ Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, ‘Go ahead.’ So the girl went and called the child’s mother. Then Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, ‘Take this child away and nurse him for me and I will give you your wages.’ So the woman took the child and nursed him. The child grew, and she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son. And she named him Moses, and said, ‘Because I drew him out of the water.'”
Out of all the words that describe women, one stands out the most — COURAGEOUS! This was especially true of three pivotal women in Moses’ life whose destinies were forever changed, by God’s providence, one day along the banks of the Nile.
Jochebed, Moses’ mom, risked everything to save her son. She clung to the hope that he might live at a time when all male Hebrew babies were being killed as a cruel solution to overpopulation. Her daughter, Miriam, protectively stood at a distance watching over Moses. Though she was a slave, she bravely approached the royal princess to offer a wet nurse when Moses was discovered. It also looks took great courage for Pharaoh’s daughter to rescue and raise a Hebrew child as her own.
This story is an amazing story of courage, but it’s also one of faith. Jochebed showed enormous faith by giving her child away — especially to someone with conflicting beliefs — and she was rewarded for her faith! God allowed her to raise Moses during his most formative years while being paid to do so. How truly remarkable!
In various forms, mothers make courageous sacrifices for their children every day. So, Moms, thank you for your hard work, fierce love, and protective nature. Keep the faith even in uncertain times, because God has an extraordinary plan for your children and has entrusted you to lead them into a relationship with Jesus! You are a blessing!
We all have times when we need great courage. What decision have you been turning over in your mind? Maybe it’s a major move or a minor tweak. Whatever it is, trust God with that decision. Seek wise counsel from those He has placed in your life and take the next courageous step. Believe that God is at work laying His path before you.
Heavenly Father, Give me the courage to step out in faith. You are trustworthy, and Your plans are perfect. I know that even when I don’t see it or feel it, You are working! In Jesus’ name, Amen.