Exodus 3:8

"The LORD said, “I have surely seen the affliction of my people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows."

Key Reflection

Exodus 3:8 reveals God's intimate knowledge and compassion for his people as he sees their suffering in Egypt firsthand. To the Israelites, this statement underscored that they were not alone; their cries had reached the throne of the Almighty, who was now ready to intervene on their behalf. This context highlights how divine providence would guide the narrative of liberation, emphasizing God's active involvement and empathy with his chosen people from the moment of their distress.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

The natural richness of Palestine, the variety and excellence of its productions, are attested by sacred (compareJeremiah 32:22;Ezekiel 20:6) and ancient writers, whose descriptions are strongly in contrast with those of later travelers. The expression “flowing with milk and honey” is used proverbially by Greek poets. The Canaanites ... -This is the first passage in this book where the enumeration, so often repeated, of the nations then in possession of Palestine, is given. Moses was to learn at once the extent of the promise, and the greatness of the enterprise. In Egypt, the forces, situation, and character of these nations were then well known.

More from Exodus 3

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