Today I began my readings in the book of Exodus. The first chapter chronicles the growth of Joseph’s descendants in Egypt becoming a mighty people. The Hebrews were so numerous the Egyptians feared them and tried to control the population through hard service, slavery and even infanticide. Yet, God’s people grew – “The more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and spread abroad.” This passage brings to mind the oft quoted words of the early church father Tertullian, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Mistreatment, persecution, and suffering are never pleasant – they certainly were not for the Hebrews or the early church. But, God seems to work through them more than prosperity, ease and comfort. Even in, or maybe especially through trials, God accomplish his purposes, advance his kingdom, and builds his church. DW
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