Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 2:20 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 2:20 stands as a pivotal verse in the narrative of Moses, set within the broader context of the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. While seemingly brief, the verse carries profound significance both in its immediate context and in its wider theological and practical implications. In this article, we will explore the context of Exodus 2:20, its meaning, and its application in life, as well as compare it with other biblical texts and explore its relevance to modern-day believers.
The Context of Exodus 2:20 KJV
To fully understand the meaning of Exodus 2:20, it is essential to look at the surrounding narrative. Exodus 2 tells the story of Moses’ early life, beginning with his birth and the miraculous events surrounding his rescue from the Nile River (Exodus 2:1-10). His early life in Egypt as a member of Pharaoh’s household is followed by an episode in which he sees an Egyptian taskmaster beating a Hebrew slave. Moses intervenes and kills the Egyptian, fleeing to the land of Midian to escape Pharaoh’s wrath (Exodus 2:11-15).
In Midian, Moses arrives at a well where he encounters the seven daughters of Reuel (also known as Jethro), the priest of Midian. These women had come to draw water for their father’s flock, but some shepherds harassed them and drove them away. Moses, ever the defender of the oppressed, comes to their rescue, driving away the shepherds and ensuring that the women can water their flocks.
After this, Exodus 2:20 introduces a key moment in the story:
“And they said, An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the shepherds, and also drew water enough for us, and watered the flock.” (Exodus 2:20, KJV)
This verse is significant because it marks the point where Moses, having already gained favor with the daughters of Reuel, is invited into their home, and eventually becomes part of their family. The verse reflects not only Moses’ intervention on behalf of the women but also his growing role in the unfolding salvation story of the Israelites, even though he does not yet know the full extent of God’s plan for his life.
Exodus 2:20 in Immediate Context
To understand the significance of this verse, we must first recall that Moses’ act of rescuing the daughters of Reuel is a demonstration of his natural inclination toward justice, even before God has formally called him to lead the Israelites. The verse also marks a shift in Moses’ life. He has fled from Egypt, where he was a prince, and now, in Midian, he finds himself in a humble position, helping a family who later becomes a key part of his life.
In Exodus 2:21, the story continues with Reuel inviting Moses to stay with him and eventually giving him one of his daughters, Zipporah, as a wife. This event establishes Moses in Midian, where he will remain for forty years before God calls him to deliver the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.
The Meaning of Exodus 2:20
At its core, Exodus 2:20 highlights an act of kindness and justice. When the daughters of Reuel recount how Moses helped them, they say, “An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the shepherds.” While Moses had not explicitly identified himself as an Egyptian (he was born a Hebrew but raised as an Egyptian prince), the women recognize him as such based on his appearance and demeanor. The term “Egyptian” in this context simply points to his heritage, but the key idea here is that Moses was perceived as someone who stood up for those in need.
Moses as a Deliverer
This verse gives us a glimpse of Moses as a type of deliverer before his formal calling by God. In this instance, he delivers the daughters of Reuel from the unjust treatment of the shepherds. His actions foreshadow his later role in delivering the Israelites from the oppression of the Egyptians. Even before God spoke to him from the burning bush, Moses exhibited qualities of leadership and compassion, which would be essential for the monumental task ahead of him.
Furthermore, this act of kindness represents the concept of justice and protection of the vulnerable, which becomes a key theme in Moses’ life and leadership. Moses’ heart was for the oppressed, and his early actions show a compassion that would eventually lead him to liberate an entire nation.
“Drew Water Enough for Us”
The second part of Exodus 2:20 notes that Moses not only saved the women from the shepherds but also drew water for them and watered their flock. This detail may seem incidental, but it further emphasizes Moses’ readiness to serve and help, going beyond mere intervention to provide a thorough solution to their immediate problem. This willingness to serve is characteristic of Moses’ life, even in moments before his official commission. His actions foreshadow the broader role he will play in leading the Israelites to water in the wilderness, both physically and spiritually.
The Role of Reuel (Jethro)
Another important element in understanding this verse is the identity of Reuel, Moses’ eventual father-in-law. Reuel, also called Jethro, was a priest of Midian, and his family played a critical role in Moses’ early life. The inclusion of this detail shows that Moses’ life in Midian was not merely a time of exile or wandering, but also a period of preparation. Through his interaction with Reuel’s family, Moses would later learn valuable lessons in leadership and community that would serve him when he led the Israelites.
Application of Exodus 2:20 in Life
The practical lessons from Exodus 2:20 are profound. Here, we see Moses acting with justice, compassion, and willingness to serve others, all traits that Christians are called to emulate in their own lives. The application of this passage speaks to the importance of stepping into the needs of others with a heart of service and humility.
Responding to Injustice
Moses’ intervention in the lives of the daughters of Reuel teaches us to stand against injustice wherever we see it. Just as Moses stepped in to protect the vulnerable, Christians are called to be advocates for those who are oppressed, marginalized, and mistreated. Whether in our workplaces, communities, or the wider world, we are encouraged to take action where injustice reigns and to seek justice for the downtrodden.
Serving the Vulnerable
Moses’ actions in drawing water for the daughters of Reuel also highlight the importance of serving others in practical ways. Christians are not only called to offer spiritual guidance but also to meet the physical needs of others. Service to others is a foundational aspect of Christian life. Whether through acts of charity, caregiving, or daily kindness, serving others in practical ways reflects the heart of Christ, who came “not to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28).
Preparation for Greater Tasks
Moses’ time in Midian was not a time of wasted years, but rather one of preparation for his future mission. In our own lives, we can find comfort in knowing that God often uses periods of waiting, preparation, or seeming obscurity to ready us for the purposes He has for us. Just as Moses was being prepared for his monumental task in the wilderness, God may be preparing us for His calling in our own lives, even when we cannot yet see the full picture.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
Exodus 2:20 can be compared with other biblical texts where acts of kindness, justice, and protection are emphasized. Several themes in this passage echo throughout Scripture, particularly the call to protect the oppressed and to serve others with compassion.
Justice in the Old Testament
In Deuteronomy 10:18, God is described as one “who executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing.” Like God, Moses demonstrates a concern for justice and the vulnerable. The passage in Exodus 2:20 shows that Moses shares God’s heart for the oppressed, which would later become a central theme of his leadership.
Jesus’ Example of Service
The New Testament emphasizes the theme of service in Jesus’ ministry. In Matthew 20:28, Jesus says, “The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” Just as Moses was willing to serve the daughters of Reuel in practical ways, Jesus exemplified ultimate service by laying down His life for humanity. Christians are called to follow Christ’s example of sacrificial service, looking out for the needs of others and serving humbly.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
In Luke 10:30-37, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan, where a man is beaten and left for dead on the road. Several people pass by, but the Samaritan stops and helps, demonstrating compassion and mercy. This parable mirrors Moses’ actions in Exodus 2:20 in that both individuals intervene in situations of injustice and show mercy to those in need.
Modern-Day Relevance of Exodus 2:20
Exodus 2:20 holds great relevance for contemporary believers. The principles of justice, compassion, and service are timeless and continue to resonate with today’s world. In a society that often struggles with issues of inequality, racial injustice, and social division, Christians are called to embody these virtues as Moses did, acting on behalf of the oppressed and vulnerable.
Standing Up for the Oppressed
In the modern world, standing up for the oppressed could mean advocating for racial justice, addressing poverty, supporting refugees, or standing against human trafficking. Christians are called to be voices for those who cannot speak for themselves, just as Moses stood in the gap for the daughters of Reuel.
Acts of Service
In an age where people are often disconnected or self-focused, the simple act of serving others can be revolutionary. Whether through volunteering, helping a neighbor, or providing for those in need, believers can make a tangible impact by following the example set in Exodus 2:20.
Conclusion
Exodus 2:20 provides a profound glimpse into Moses’ character and sets the stage for his later calling as the deliverer of Israel. The verse highlights themes of justice, compassion, and service, themes that are central not only to Moses’ life but also to the broader biblical narrative. By examining this passage, we are encouraged to stand up for justice, to serve others, and to be faithful in times of preparation. The life of Moses teaches us that even in moments of waiting, God is working, and He can use our acts of service and kindness to bring about His purposes.
Exodus 2:20 Commentary
In a world still marred by injustice, the message of Exodus 2:20 is as relevant today as it was in ancient times: we are called to live with a heart of compassion, ready to serve those in need.
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