Scripture Focus: “So the same day Pharaoh commanded the taskmasters… ‘You shall no longer give the people straw to make brick as before. Let them go and gather straw for themselves.’” Exodus 5:6-7 NKJV
Moses had heard God’s voice clearly. Aaron stood with him. The mission was on, and Israel’s deliverance was in motion. But instead of Pharaoh bowing quickly to God’s command, things got worse. The Israelites now had to make bricks without straw. What was meant to be freedom looked like deeper bondage. Yet, God had not lied. His promise was still intact. Sometimes when God begins a new work in your life, it looks like the opposite is happening. You finish fasting and praying, and suddenly things fall apart. You step into obedience, and the challenges multiply. That doesn’t mean God failed, it means the battle is intensifying because your breakthrough is closer.
When it feels worse after God has spoken, hold on to what He said. The enemy often fights hardest just before the promise manifests. Don’t complain like Israel did; choose praise instead. The climb gets steeper as you near the top, but the view at the summit will prove that it was worth it. God has not forgotten you. If He said it, He will do it, even if the process feels longer and harder than expected. The Word of the Lord is sure.
Prayer: Lord, give me faith to hold on to Your Word when things seem to get worse. Teach me to praise instead of complain, knowing You always finish what You start. Amen.
Further Study: Exodus 5:1-23, Habakkuk 2:3, Numbers 23:19