In the book of Exodus, Moses was adopted into the royal family of Egypt and later called to deliver the Israelites from slavery. But this story begins long before Moses’ birth—with the courage and fear of God displayed by two faithful midwives.
After the Pharaoh from Joseph’s time died, the Israelites continued to grow in number. The new Pharaoh feared their increasing population, saying, “If war breaks out, they will join our enemies, fight against us, and leave the country.”Because of this fear, he enslaved the Israelites and forced them into harsh labor, building cities such as Rameses and Pithom. (Exodus 1:1–14)
But even slavery did not slow their growth. So Pharaoh commanded Shiphrah and Puah, two leading Hebrew midwives, “When you help the Hebrew women during childbirth, if the baby is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live.”(Exodus 1:15–16)
However, the midwives feared God more than they feared Pharaoh. They refused to take innocent lives. When Pharaoh noticed the population had not decreased, he confronted them, asking, “Why have you let the boys live?” They replied, “Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive.” Because of their reverence for God and their courageous obedience, God blessed the midwives and gave them families of their own. (Exodus 1:17–20)
This story reminds us that God sometimes places us in positions of influence—whether in our families, workplaces, communities, or even in society at large—so we can stand for righteousness when others compromise. There will be moments when leaders, friends, workplaces, or governing authorities promote actions or values that go against God’s Word. In such moments, we are called to be a voice for the voiceless and protect those who cannot protect themselves.
God understands that standing for truth is difficult and sometimes dangerous. Yet He assures us that obedience to Him is always worth it. It is better to do what is honorable and righteous in God’s eyes than to remain silent in the face of wrongdoing. Our boldness becomes a testimony—and God honors those who honor Him.
