JUNE 7 – The Danger of Rebellion and the Power of Obedience
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 17:12-13; Exodus 12
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“Let a man meet a she-bear robbed of her cubs rather than a fool in his folly.” —Proverbs 17:12
“The blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt.” —Exodus 12:13
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Have you ever had one of those moments where you’ve done something that you immediately knew was a huge mistake? Maybe you didn’t listen to a parent or teacher, or you ignored your gut feeling and made a bad decision. Proverbs 17:12 says that it would be safer to meet a wild bear than to encounter someone who is stuck in their foolishness. It paints a vivid picture—foolishness leads to danger and destruction.
In Exodus 12, we see God preparing the Israelites to leave Egypt, but not before the most significant judgment would take place: the death of the firstborns of Egypt. However, God provides a way of escape for the Israelites—through the Passover lamb. The Israelites were commanded to kill a lamb, take its blood, and mark their doorposts. When God saw the blood, He would “pass over” their homes, sparing their lives.
This moment is a powerful reminder that obedience brings protection, while rebellion leads to destruction. Pharaoh’s rebellion to God’s command cost him the lives of his people, but the Israelites were saved through their obedience to God’s instructions. The same applies to us: when we follow God’s commands, even when they seem difficult, we’re protected and blessed. But when we choose to ignore God’s guidance, we end up facing consequences.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Folly and Consequences: Proverbs warns us that foolishness leads to harm. Think about a time when you made a decision without thinking through the consequences. How did that decision affect you or those around you?
2. Obedience to God: The Israelites’ obedience to God during the Passover saved their lives. What are some areas of your life where God is calling you to obey? Are there situations where you find it difficult to trust God’s instructions?
3. The Passover Lamb: The lamb’s blood on the doorposts was a sign of God’s protection. Just like that, Jesus is the Lamb whose blood saves us from the consequences of sin. How does remembering Jesus’ sacrifice help you respond to God’s calls for obedience?
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BOTTOM LINE
Foolishness leads to destruction, but obedience brings blessing—just as the Israelites were saved through the Passover, we are saved through Jesus, who calls us to trust and follow Him.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of Your protection and for sending Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice to save us. Help me to recognize the danger of foolish choices and the importance of obeying Your guidance. Give me the strength to trust You in all areas of my life, knowing that You protect and care for me. Help me to live in a way that honors You, walking in Your wisdom and love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.