Exodus: From Suffering to SalvationSample

Knowing the God Who Sets Me Free

The first phase of Israel’s liberation story was fairly straightforward. They were suffering, God worked through Moses to set them free, and then they made their exit from Egypt. However, that was just the beginning.

Theologian N.T. Wright said it this way,

“There are two liberation journeys in Exodus: getting Israel out of Egyptian slavery, and getting slavery out of Israel.”

Though they were no longer in physical bondage, Israel still had a slavery mentality; they did not know how to live a free life.

To get slavery out of Israel, they had to know God. And that meant knowing His name. Because somewhere along the way—in the midst of oppression and before deliverance—they forgot God’s name. And, in turn, who He really is.

So, God did what only He can do: He revealed Himself.

As you watch this clip of God’s encounter with Moses through the burning bush, reflect on the awe and intimacy of this moment. Focus on the depth of God’s identity revealed in the powerful declaration: “I Am Who I Am.” This moment was not just for Moses; it was for all of Israel—and for us too.

God is not distant. He reveals Himself as Yahweh, which in Hebrew means “I Am, Who I Am.” He is the One who is present in our deepest needs and strongest doubts.

“How could Israel forget God’s name?” But how often do we fall into that same trap? How often do we abandon faith in God when He does not do what we expect Him to?

When we lose sight of hope, we lose sight of who God really is.

God is not just our Elohim—the ancient Hebrew title for one with authority—He is Yahweh, the personal name of the God who reveals Himself as Defender, Provider, Forgiver, and Redeemer.

Our journey from being enslaved by sin, depression, and anxiety is a long one, but Jesus came to walk alongside us.

We may think, “I am broken,” but Jesus reminds us, “I Am the One who makes you whole.”

We may think, “I am alone,” but Jesus says, “I Am the One who never leaves you.”

We may think, “I am not enough,” but Jesus says, “I Am.”

Reflection:

What areas of your life do you need to surrender to Jesus to experience His wholeness, presence, and sufficiency?

Prayer:

God, reveal Yourself to me in ways I have never noticed before so I may walk more closely with You. Amen.