Introduction

Lesson 4 takes us directly into the dramatic conflict between the living God and the gods of Egypt. The ten plagues were not merely natural disasters, but targeted revelations of divine power over human arrogance and religious deception. Each plague struck the Egyptians where they felt most secure – their gods, their king, and their economy. God demonstrated that He alone is Lord of life, nature, and history. This was not only about punishment but also about recognition and repentance. The lesson invites us to identify our own “idols” – and to worship God as the one true Lord.

Lesson 4: The Plagues
4.1 God vs. gods
The True King – God’s Power Over All False Gods

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Introduction

This lesson brings us to a turning point in Israel’s history: the living God confronts not just an earthly king but an entire world of gods. It is not merely about political or social liberation, but the revelation of God within a culture steeped in magic, power, and religion.

The Exodus of Israel from Egypt is a dramatic demonstration: Yahweh is not one god among many – He is the only true God. In this first confrontation with Pharaoh, we encounter one of the most profound biblical principles: God alone is worthy of honor, power, and worship.

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Bible Study: Exodus 7:8–15 – The First Confrontation: God’s Staff vs Egypt’s Magic

I. Placing It in the Biblical Context

Before diving into the verses, it’s important to understand the larger context. In Exodus 1–6, we read of Israel’s slavery in Egypt and God’s call to Moses. Moses is called by God to deliver Israel from bondage. But he hesitates – out of fear, insecurity, and a sense of inadequacy.

In Chapter 7, a new phase begins: the living God reveals Himself not only to Moses but publicly confronts the Egyptian religious and political system.

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II. Focusing on the Verses: Exodus 7:8–15

Verses 8–10: The Staff Becomes a Serpent

“Then the Lord said to Moses and Aaron: ‘When Pharaoh says to you, “Perform a miracle,” then say to Aaron, “Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh,” and it will become a serpent.’
So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the Lord commanded. Aaron threw his staff down in front of Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent.”

Observations:

• God deliberately prepares Moses and Aaron for a confrontation.

• The staff – a simple shepherd’s tool – becomes a sign of divine authority.

• The serpent is not chosen randomly – it is one of Egypt’s central religious symbols.

Historical Background:

The cobra, the symbol of the goddess Wadjet, represented royal power and protection. It was displayed on Pharaoh’s crown – directly above his eyes – as a symbol of divine authority and alleged invincibility.

Thus, when Aaron’s staff becomes a serpent, it is not just a trick – it is a direct challenge to Pharaoh’s symbolic divinity.

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Verses 11–12: The Egyptian Magicians Respond

“Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts: each one threw down his staff and it became a serpent. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs.”

Observations:

• The magicians could replicate Aaron’s miracle – demonstrating that demonic powers can produce real signs.

• Yet Aaron’s serpent swallows theirs – this is an act of God’s total supremacy.

Spiritual Significance:

• God’s power is not only greater – it is absolutely supreme.

• The serpent not only defeats but consumes the others – a vivid display that all who oppose God will ultimately fall.

The God of Israel is not a local deity – He is the universal, almighty Lord.

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Verses 13–15: Pharaoh’s Heart Remains Hardened

“Yet Pharaoh’s heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said. Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Pharaoh’s heart is unyielding; he refuses to let the people go. Go to Pharaoh in the morning as he goes out to the river. Confront him on the bank of the Nile…’”

Observations:

• Despite witnessing a clear miracle, Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened.

• God is not surprised – He foretold this response.

Theological Depth:

• Hardening of the heart is a key theme in the books of Moses. It represents not just resistance, but the willful rejection of truth, even in the face of divine signs.

• It shows that miracles alone cannot change a heart – only humility and faith can open us to God’s work.

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III. Comparison with Egyptian Religion

The Egyptians had over 1,500 known gods, many associated with nature, animals, and the afterlife. In this story, God confronts:

• Wadjet, the cobra goddess – symbol of Pharaoh’s divine authority.

• Nehebkau, the serpent god who had swallowed seven cobras – symbol of spiritual strength.

• Pharaoh himself, believed to be divine.

God exposes their power as illusion. What Egypt saw as strength, God overthrows. And He does it not in secret, but publicly and deliberately.

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IV. Spiritual Lessons for Today

1. God Confronts Our Modern Idols

Like the Egyptians, we too have gods we trust:

• Finances and security

• Reputation and status

• Technology, science, knowledge

• Self-fulfillment and individualism

But God says:

“You shall have no other gods before Me.” (Exodus 20:3)

Anything we elevate above God – even if useful or wise – can become an idol. God calls us to tear down these false gods, so that He alone may reign.

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2. God’s Signs Demand Obedient Response

Pharaoh saw the miracle – but remained unmoved. Many people today see God’s fingerprints – in nature, answered prayers, protection, even miracles. But unless the heart is humble, it remains hardened despite the signs.

God reveals Himself not for entertainment, but for repentance.

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3. God’s Power Is Not a Trick – It Is Truth

The magicians could imitate the sign – but not surpass it.

Evil can imitate God’s works – but never replace them.
Demonic forces exist – but they are always subject to God.

Aaron’s serpent consuming the others is a prophetic image:

On the cross, Jesus swallowed up death and the devil (see 1 Corinthians 15:54–55).
The true serpent lifted up in the wilderness (John 3:14) saves – not destroys.

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V. Questions for Reflection

• What “staffs” and “serpents” claim power in today’s world – and how can God expose and overcome them?

• What keeps people today (as with Pharaoh) from recognizing God’s authority?

• What personal “idols” are you holding on to – and how might God be challenging you to surrender them?

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Conclusion

The event in Exodus 7:8–15 is not a “small miracle,” but the beginning of a profound spiritual war. God is not fighting against people, but against systems, idols, and false securities that enslave humanity.

Moses and Aaron stand in God’s name – not with weapons, but with a staff, a word, and obedience. God still works this way today through His followers.

The symbolism of the miracle:

The serpent was a symbol of divine power in Egypt – control over life and death. When Aaron’s staff becomes a serpent and devours the others, God shows His power over the symbols and magic of Egypt.

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Answers to the Questions

Question 1: What lessons emerge from the first confrontation between the God of the Hebrews and the gods of Egypt?

This confrontation is more than a magical showdown – it is an open attack by God against Egypt’s spiritual structure. God systematically humbles the Egyptian gods, beginning with a central symbol: the cobra, representing divine power, leadership, and protection.

This scene reveals:

• God’s superiority over all man-made objects of worship. The magicians imitated the sign, but only God’s serpent consumed the others – a picture of victory over false powers.

• Aaron’s (and Moses’) divine authority is publicly affirmed. Their staff – just a piece of wood – became a vessel of divine revelation. God uses the weak to defeat the strong.

• Pharaoh’s hardened heart is part of God’s larger plan. He is not immediately convinced despite the miracle. This teaches us: Faith is born not through spectacle, but through revelation and humility.

This event sets the stage for the ten plagues – each a direct attack on an Egyptian god – but it all begins here, with the staff and the serpent.

Question 2: How can we surrender to God’s sovereignty over any “gods” that seek dominance in our lives?

This is a highly relevant question – even if we don’t worship stone or gold idols, many of us live under the rule of modern gods:

• Career and success – when our value is defined by performance.

• Recognition and image – when we spend more time on social media than in prayer.

• Technology, possessions, safety – anything that demands our time, money, and devotion.

To let God reign as Lord requires:

• Recognizing our idols. What in your life replaces God? What gives you identity, security, or pride?

• Repentance and surrender. Idols must not only be named – they must be destroyed. This happens through prayer, spiritual discipline, and obedience.

• Letting go of control. Many “gods” give us the illusion of control – but God calls us: Trust Me, not your systems.

• Daily orientation toward God. Just as Aaron’s staff came alive by God’s word, so will our lives be sanctified by His word.

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Spiritual Principles

• God is a jealous God – He tolerates no rivals (Exodus 20:3)

• True power is not in the visible, but in obedience to God

• Hardness of heart is not God’s weakness but space for His justice

• God acts intentionally – His signs speak into each cultural context

• Every battle against idols is a call to repentance and relationship

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Application for Daily Life

• Ask yourself: What “god” competes with Yahweh in your life? (Time, money, desires, pride?)

• Reset your priorities. Start the day in prayer, not on your phone. Give God first place.

• Give your staff back to God. Your gifts, your job, your influence – everything can become a tool in His hands.

• Be bold in confrontation. Moses and Aaron stood before Egypt’s powers – we too must sometimes stand against the idols of our age.

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Conclusion

This first confrontation between God and Egypt’s gods shows: God stands above every human system of power, religion, and control. He reveals Himself through signs – but more importantly, through truth. Pharaoh resists – yet God’s plan continues. Today, God calls us to recognize His authority in every area of life. The staff that became a serpent is also a picture of Christ – who devours our sin, ego, and idols to set us free.

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Thought of the Day

“God does not destroy our false securities to harm us – but to save us. Because where His serpent devours the others, true freedom begins.”

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Illustration – “Awakening in the Shadow of Power”

Chapter 1: The Man with the Golden Staff

It was a quiet, clear evening in New York City. On the 73rd floor of a gleaming skyscraper, Elias Merrow, CEO of “Orbis Dynamics” – a global tech empire – sat in his sleek office. His assistants called him “the King of Systems.” The press reverently referred to him as “The Man with the Golden Staff,” in reference to the custom-designed cane with a heavy golden head that he carried at public appearances.

Elias was the epitome of success: wealthy, charismatic, and strategically brilliant. What few knew was that he was obsessed with control. Every part of his company, team, and even family was carefully structured. Order was his religion, power his prayer, and technology his god.

He didn’t believe in a higher power. Religion was for the weak. His systems, his data, his algorithms – these were the true forces of the world. He saw himself as a modern Pharaoh – a ruler in a world ruled by data.

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Chapter 2: The Confrontation

One morning, during a conference reserved for elite executives, an unassuming woman approached him. She wore a simple navy-blue dress and spoke softly, but her words cut through the air like a blade:

“Elias Merrow, God says: I will bring judgment on all the gods of this world – for I am the LORD.
Your staff is made of gold, but it is empty.
Your system is clever, but it is blind.
You exalt yourself – but you will fall.”

Security escorted her out, but Elias couldn’t shake her gaze – calm, firm, and clear. Her words echoed in his mind for days.

That night, he had a dream. He stood in a white room. Around him were screens, machines, systems – they flickered, glitched, melted. In his hand was the golden staff. He raised it – and it transformed into a black serpent, coiling up his arm and burrowing into his flesh.

He woke up drenched in sweat.

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Chapter 3: The Signs Begin

Within days, his empire began to crumble.

First, “Gnosis AI”, a market prediction system, failed catastrophically – causing billion-dollar losses. Then OrbisHealth, his global health surveillance system, crashed – leaving hospitals paralyzed. Finally, his entire data archive was wiped by a virus. His best engineers said:

“It’s not man-made. Somehow… it only erases data linked to your name, Elias.”

In a panic, he tried to regain control – but nothing worked. The media, investors, even his inner circle abandoned him. His golden staff, once a symbol of prestige, now lay useless on his desk.

He was alone. Shattered.

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Chapter 4: The Journey into the Wilderness

He left everything. Without notice, protection, or plan. For weeks he wandered through the American heartland – nameless, homeless.

One day, he reached a small town in New Mexico. There, he met an old man who pastored a run-down church.

The man spoke little, but his eyes held peace. In a quiet conversation, he asked Elias:

“What brought you here?”

Elias replied,

“I thought I had the world in my hands. I had power, influence, knowledge. But now I have nothing.”

The man nodded.

“Then you’re finally ready to hear what you never could before.”

He opened a worn Bible and read aloud:

“I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt, for I am the LORD.” – Exodus 12:12

Elias listened – and for the first time, it didn’t sound like a threat. It sounded like an invitation. He realized: He was not the Lord. He was a man. A created being.

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Chapter 5: The Turning Point

In the following months, Elias helped the old pastor repair buildings, teach, and serve meals to the needy. No one knew his past. He began to pray – slowly at first, then sincerely.

His golden staff had long since rusted under a bridge in Manhattan. But in his heart, a new sign was born – not of metal, but of grace.

One evening, as he sat outside the little church staring at the stars, he felt a voice deep within:

“You were blind, but now you see.
I consumed your idols – not to destroy you, but to save you.”

He wept. Not out of shame – but out of gratitude.

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Chapter 6: A New Life

Five years later, a humble start-up called “Nehemiah Co.” was born – named after the biblical figure who rebuilt Jerusalem. It offered ethical tech consulting for companies – rooted in Christian values: transparency, justice, and mercy.

Elias rarely appeared in public. When he spoke, it was quietly, with wisdom. Some knew his story, most did not. But those who met him sensed: This man had once wrestled with the gods – and encountered the living God.

In his small office hung a simple wooden cross.
Beside it – a broken piece of a golden staff.

Underneath, a framed inscription read:

“The LORD had executed judgment on their gods.” – Numbers 33:4

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END OF THE STORY

This story reminds us:
The gods of our time – technology, success, control – are not eternal.
Only the living God remains.
He does not judge to destroy –
but to redeem.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-4-the-plagues-4-1-god-vs-gods-exodus-living-faith/

July 20, 2025
DAILY BIBLE READING
Leviticus 5 – Confessing Guilt – Receiving Forgiveness
God’s Path to Restoration through the Sin and Guilt Offerings

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Bible Text – Leviticus 5 (KJV)

¹ And if a soul sin, and hear the voice of swearing, and is a witness, whether he hath seen or known of it; if he do not utter it, then he shall bear his iniquity.

² Or if a soul touch any unclean thing, whether it be a carcase of an unclean beast, or a carcase of unclean cattle, or the carcase of unclean creeping things, and if it be hidden from him; he also shall be unclean, and guilty.

³ Or if he touch the uncleanness of man, whatsoever uncleanness it be that a man shall be defiled withal, and it be hid from him; when he knoweth of it, then he shall be guilty.

⁴ Or if a soul swear, pronouncing with his lips to do evil, or to do good, whatsoever it be that a man shall pronounce with an oath, and it be hid from him; when he knoweth of it, then he shall be guilty in one of these.

⁵ And it shall be, when he shall be guilty in one of these things, that he shall confess that he hath sinned in that thing:

⁶ And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the Lord for his sin which he hath sinned, a female from the flock, a lamb or a kid of the goats, for a sin offering; and the priest shall make an atonement for him concerning his sin.

⁷ And if he be not able to bring a lamb, then he shall bring for his trespass, which he hath committed, two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, unto the Lord; one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering.

⁸ And he shall bring them unto the priest, who shall offer that which is for the sin offering first, and wring off his head from his neck, but shall not divide it asunder:

⁹ And he shall sprinkle of the blood of the sin offering upon the side of the altar; and the rest of the blood shall be wrung out at the bottom of the altar: it is a sin offering.

¹⁰ And he shall offer the second for a burnt offering, according to the manner: and the priest shall make an atonement for him for his sin which he hath sinned, and it shall be forgiven him.

¹¹ But if he be not able to bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, then he that sinned shall bring for his offering the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering; he shall put no oil upon it, neither shall he put any frankincense thereon: for it is a sin offering.

¹² Then shall he bring it to the priest, and the priest shall take his handful of it, even a memorial thereof, and burn it on the altar, according to the offerings made by fire unto the Lord: it is a sin offering.

¹³ And the priest shall make an atonement for him as touching his sin that he hath sinned in one of these, and it shall be forgiven him: and the remnant shall be the priest’s, as a meat offering.

¹⁴ And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,

¹⁵ If a soul commit a trespass, and sin through ignorance, in the holy things of the Lord; then he shall bring for his trespass unto the Lord a ram without blemish out of the flocks, with thy estimation by shekels of silver, after the shekel of the sanctuary, for a trespass offering.

¹⁶ And he shall make amends for the harm that he hath done in the holy thing, and shall add the fifth part thereto, and give it unto the priest: and the priest shall make an atonement for him with the ram of the trespass offering, and it shall be forgiven him.

¹⁷ And if a soul sin, and commit any of these things which are forbidden to be done by the commandments of the Lord; though he wist it not, yet is he guilty, and shall bear his iniquity.

¹⁸ And he shall bring a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest: and the priest shall make an atonement for him concerning his ignorance wherein he erred and wist it not, and it shall be forgiven him.

¹⁹ It is a trespass offering: he hath certainly trespassed against the Lord.

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Introduction

In a world filled with guilt, failure, and broken relationships, one pressing question arises: What do we do with our guilt? Leviticus 5 offers deep insight into how God deals with the sin of His people. It’s not just about religious rituals, but a serious, personal path of reconciliation with God – one that requires responsibility, awareness, and restitution.

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Commentary

1. Unintentional Guilt – Yet Still Guilt (Verses 1–4)

God makes it clear: even if sin is committed unknowingly or unintentionally, it is still guilt before Him. Whether it’s touching something unclean, withholding the truth, or making a rash vow – God takes it seriously. But He also offers a way to reconciliation.

2. Personal Responsibility and Sacrifices (Verses 5–13)

The sinner must acknowledge the sin and bring a sin offering. God’s mercy is revealed in the options:

• Those who can afford a sheep or goat bring that.

• Those with less bring two doves.

• Those with even less bring a grain offering.

God provides everyone – regardless of social status – access to forgiveness.

3. Holy Things and Unintentional Sin Against God (Verses 14–19)

This section deals with offenses against what is consecrated to God – for example, through accidental misuse or defilement. The remedy includes:

• A guilt offering (a flawless ram).

• Restitution (plus 20% extra).

Sacred things matter deeply to God – even unintentional offenses carry weight.

4. Guilt Against Others = Guilt Against God (Verses 20–26)

Anyone who deceives, steals, or lies to their neighbor also sins against God. True restitution involves:

• Returning what was taken or misused.

• Adding 20% as compensation.

• Offering a guilt sacrifice to God.

Reconciliation with God requires reconciliation with others.

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Summary

• Sin is real, even if unintended.

• God offers a way out – through repentance, sacrifice, and restitution.

• True repentance includes action.

• God’s grace is just – yet available to all.

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Message for Us Today

Even though we no longer bring animal sacrifices, the principle still applies:

• Sin separates us from God.

• God offers reconciliation – today through Jesus Christ.

• Genuine repentance includes responsibility, confession, and the willingness to make things right.

Jesus is our ultimate sin and guilt offering (see Hebrews 10:12). But like in Leviticus 5, we are called to bring guilt into the light – before God and, when necessary, before people.

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Reflection Questions

• Is there something in my life I’ve done wrong without noticing?

• Am I willing to take responsibility for even the “small” mistakes?

• How do I practice forgiveness – before God and toward others?

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July 20 – 26, 2025
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING
Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 18
The Night of Wrestling
Read online here

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Introduction

The story of Jacob is a story of hope for everyone who has ever wrestled with guilt, fear, or doubt. Jacob, who once gained the birthright through deceit, returns after years of exile—marked, repentant, but changed. Before him lies a confrontation with his brother Esau—a man who would have every reason to seek revenge.

On the night at the river Jabbok, the decisive turning point comes. There, Jacob wrestles—not just with an angel, but with his past, his guilt, and his God.

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Commentary

1. Jacob’s Return: Between Promise and Fear

Jacob follows God’s call back to the Promised Land, but fear of Esau paralyzes him. Despite divine promises, he wrestles inwardly with the guilt of his past.

“Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed.” – Genesis 32:7

He does everything humanly possible: sends messengers, prepares gifts, divides his flock. But he knows: it’s not enough. He needs God’s intervention.

2. The Night at Jabbok – Wrestling with God

In solitude, Jacob does not flee—he prays. He longs to meet God. Then a mysterious opponent appears—an all-night struggle begins.

No words, just physical wrestling.

But soon it becomes clear: this is more than a man—it is a heavenly being—the Angel of the Covenant, Christ Himself (cf. Malachi 3:1).

Jacob holds on—despite the wound to his hip—and clings to the angel, not asking for power, but for blessing.

“I will not let you go unless you bless me.” – Genesis 32:26

What began as a physical struggle becomes a spiritual victory: Jacob confesses his guilt, pleads for grace, and receives a new name—Israel.

3. The Morning After – From Fear to Reconciliation

Jacob meets Esau—not as a deceiver, but as one marked by God. He limps, but his face shines. And Esau? Instead of anger, he shows grace.

“But Esau ran to meet him and embraced him and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept.” – Genesis 33:4

God’s grace touched two hearts: Jacob’s—and Esau’s.

4. A Prophetic Image – Jacob’s Time of Trouble

Ellen White interprets Jacob’s night of wrestling as a foreshadowing of the end time:

God’s people will go through a time of trouble (cf. Jeremiah 30:5–7).

Satan will accuse them, pressing them down with guilt.

But like Jacob, they will cling to God’s promises—despite fear, despite weakness—and God’s grace will carry them.

“Those who, like Jacob, hold fast to God’s promises, will find them fulfilled.” – Patriarchs and Prophets

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Summary

Jacob wrestles with God—and is blessed.

From deceiver to overcomer: Israel—“he who struggles with God and prevails.”

God’s grace overcomes guilt—not to separate, but to reconcile.

Jacob’s story is also our story: fear, struggle, forgiveness, and new identity in Christ.

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Message for Us Today

Is there something that separates you from God? Jacob shows: genuine repentance is heard.

In the troubles of your life: don’t rely on people, but on God’s promises.

The faith that wrestles through will not be disappointed.

God blesses not the strongest—but those who hold on to Him.

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Reflection Question

What are you wrestling with today? Fear, guilt, doubt?

Are you willing not to let go of God—even if you are wounded?

What promise holds you when everything else falls apart?

“I will not let you go unless you bless me.” – Let these words be your prayer today.

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July 20 – 26, 2025
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING
Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 19
The Return to Canaan
Read online here

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Introduction

Jacob’s return to Canaan is marked by fulfilled promises, inner renewal—but also by the tragic failures of his sons. The matured patriarch experiences both God’s grace and the consequences of past mistakes within his family. In this chapter of his life, we learn how closely divine blessing is tied to personal responsibility.

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Commentary

1. Gratitude and Worship in Shechem

Jacob arrives “safely” in Shechem—a testimony that God has kept His promise. He buys land, builds an altar, and publicly confesses: “God is the God of Israel.” His faith is seen in daily life through worship, sacrifice, and gratitude.

2. Dinah’s Tragedy and the Massacre at Shechem (Genesis 34)

The incident with Dinah reveals how dangerous it is to open oneself to the influence of a godless culture. The brutal revenge carried out by Simeon and Levi brings shame upon the family. Jacob perceives the moral decline of his sons and is deeply shaken. This episode marks a dramatic setback on their spiritual journey.

3. Purification and Return to Bethel

God calls Jacob back to the place of promise. But before reaching Bethel, Jacob leads a spiritual reformation in the camp. Idols and foreign jewelry are buried—a symbol of renewed consecration. In Bethel, God appears to him again and renews the covenant.

4. Tragedies Along the Way: The Deaths of Deborah and Rachel

The final stages are marked by loss. Rachel dies during Benjamin’s birth—a profound sorrow for Jacob. Her love had shaped his life. The death of Rebekah’s nurse, Deborah, stirs up old memories. At the same time, God calls Jacob again to faithfulness.

5. Return to Hebron – Reconciliation with Esau

Jacob meets Isaac again and cares for him in his final years. A peaceful reunion also occurs with Esau. However, the brothers live separately, as their life paths have grown too different.

6. The Legacy of Parenting: Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 37)

The effects of jealousy, favoritism, and a polygamous family structure are now painfully visible. Joseph is the child of hope—sensitive, God-fearing—but also the target of his brothers’ hatred. His sale into Egypt becomes the next phase of God’s redemptive plan.

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Summary

Jacob returns under God’s protection to the Promised Land. He experiences God’s faithfulness but also faces family conflicts, sin, and painful losses. His sons reveal deep character flaws—especially in their betrayal of Joseph. Yet amid the chaos, God’s plan begins to unfold through Joseph, whom He will save and elevate.

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Message for Us Today

God’s promises are fulfilled—even when our path leads through guilt and suffering.
Families need spiritual leadership and purity—compromise comes at a high cost.
Repentance, cleansing, and returning to God bring a new beginning.
Our choices affect generations—for blessing or pain.
What people intend for evil, God can still turn to good.

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Reflection Question

Are there “foreign gods” in your life—things that crowd out your devotion to God?
Where is God calling you back to a “Bethel moment” of renewal?
Is your home a place where God is worshipped—daily, visibly, together?
Are you letting God shape you—even through your past mistakes?

“God never turns away anyone who returns to Him in sincere repentance.”

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/20-07-2025-leviticus-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/

July 20, 2025
  Loyal to One Another
 When criticism destroys and loyalty unites

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Bible Verse

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.”
— Ephesians 4:31

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Introduction

Have you ever experienced someone speaking badly about you? Maybe a friend you trusted? Or have you been the one to judge others? Words can build up — but also deeply wound.

Ephesians 4:31 calls us to remove all negativity from our lives: bitterness, anger, harshness, and hurtful speech. These things destroy relationships — in churches, families, schools.

God calls us to a different lifestyle: loyalty, honesty, and mercy — especially toward our brothers and sisters in faith.

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Devotional

Ellen White writes:

“There are people who think more highly of themselves than they ought. They speak ill of their brothers, believing they would have done better — naturally. But in truth, they would not have done better had they been in the same situation.”
— Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 58

How often do we think we know better? We look back and say, “I would’ve done it differently.” But often we judge from a comfortable distance — without pressure, responsibility, or the full picture.

“Keep away from the judgment seat! All judgment is entrusted to the Son of God.”
— Ellen G. White, Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 95

Judging is not our place — it belongs to Christ. Yet we often speak about others as if we had the right to do so.

“Satan works hard to bring people down in precisely this area.”
— Ibid.

He tempts us to think negatively, to speak, to condemn. Ellen White writes clearly:

“Those who freely let their tongues speak critical words, cleverly express opinions and comments that sow seeds of division — these are Satan’s missionaries.”
— Ibid., p. 58

“They always seem to find something to criticize or judge. Their tongues are ever ready to exaggerate every bad thing. What a great blaze a small spark can start!”
— Ibid.

These words are challenging. But they also invite us to think anew: What if, instead of criticizing, we stood up for our brothers and sisters?

“Never let your tongue and voice be used to expose or exaggerate the faults of your brothers.”
— Ellen G. White, ibid.

Because Jesus loves them. He gave His blood for them. When you hurt them, you hurt Him.

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”
— Matthew 25:40

Ellen White challenges us:

“Learn to be loyal to one another and stand firm as steel in defending your brethren.”
— Ellen G. White, ibid., p. 58

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Story – “The New Kid in Class”

Class 10b was loud, lively, and tight-knit. The students had known each other for years — almost like family. One day, a new boy arrived: David. He was quiet, spoke with a strong accent, and often stayed by himself during breaks.

His clothes were simple, his backpack old and patched. When the teacher introduced him, someone in the back mumbled,
“Oh, another one of those…”
A few giggled. David gave a shy smile and sat down.

In the following days, he stood out — not because he disrupted anything, but simply because he was different. He rarely raised his hand, often looked distracted. Some started whispering:

“He’s kinda weird.”
“He smells a bit, doesn’t he?”
“Does he even have any friends?”

Lena, a girl in the front row, heard it all. She usually didn’t like to get involved. But something in her heart wouldn’t let it go. She noticed how David sat alone during recess, wore worn-out shoes in P.E., and tried hard to keep up — sometimes with tears in his eyes when he made mistakes.

One day during a big break, it happened: two boys from the class dumped David’s milk on his notebook on purpose.
“Oops, sorry…” one sneered.
The other said, “Well, with THAT notebook, who can tell the difference anyway?”

David stood still. He said nothing, picked up his soaked notebook, and walked out into the hallway. Most laughed. A few looked down, ashamed.

But Lena — she suddenly stood up. She grabbed her own notebook, followed David out, sat next to him on the hallway floor, and said quietly:
“Here. Take mine. I’ll rewrite it for you. And — what they did was cruel. You didn’t deserve that.”

David looked at her, stunned. Then burst into tears.

Later, Lena learned David had fled with his mother from a war zone. His father had disappeared. They lived in a refugee shelter on the outskirts of town. All they had was one suitcase. No bike, no brand clothes, no Wi-Fi.

But David had dignity. And Lena had loyalty.

The next day, she sat next to him in class — boldly. She spoke with him. Laughed with him. And slowly — very slowly — others began to open up.

A few weeks later, one of the boys who had bullied David said:
“Hey, David, you’re actually pretty cool. Sorry again for before.”
David smiled. Not a triumphant smile — but a real one of forgiveness.

And Lena? She became a symbol for David: the strongest person isn’t the loudest one, but the one who doesn’t abandon the weak — who stands with them, even when everyone else laughs.

“Learn to be loyal to one another and stand firm as steel in defending your brethren.”
— Ellen G. White, ibid.

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What can we learn from this story?

True loyalty is never convenient. It takes courage, compassion — and sometimes the risk of being mocked. But it changes lives.

Maybe you are like Lena today — then dare to stand up.
Maybe you are like David — then hold on: God places people at your side.
And maybe you’re like the others — then today is a day for turning back.

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Thoughts – What Does This Mean for You?

• Where have I recently judged someone, maybe without truly knowing them?

• Am I someone who builds others up — or tears them down?

• How can I show loyalty today — even if it costs me something?

• Would Jesus say: “What you did for your brother, you did for Me”?

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Action Steps for Today

• Think about your words before you speak.

• Say something kind to someone — especially someone often criticized.

• If you start a negative conversation, stop yourself — and ask: Is this helping anyone?

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Prayer

Dear Father in heaven,
forgive me when I’ve judged or spoken badly about others. Help me to see people through Your eyes. Teach me to be loyal — strong as steel, merciful like Jesus. Give me a pure heart, a gentle voice, and the courage to stand by my brothers and sisters, even when it’s hard. Amen.

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Takeaway for Today

“Loyalty begins where criticism ends and love speaks.”

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/20-07-2025-loyal-to-one-another-heart-anchor-youth-devotional/