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Day Four: It is Normal to Get Stuck in Egypt

Egypt, the things of the world, can serve the higher, spiritual ideals of Canaan. But Egypt sometimes has a negative meaning in our lives. Rather than serving, Egypt can sometimes enslave. This is what happened to the children of Israel at the beginning of the book of Exodus. The people had come down to Egypt to escape famine in Canaan. Joseph had been sent before them to prepare the way. He had been made a great ruler in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh himself. But rather than making a temporary sojourn in Egypt, gathering wealth there and returning to Canaan, the people chose to remain in Egypt. They lived in Egypt for hundreds of years. And during this time their situation changed drastically. They forgot about their home in Canaan. To the Israelites living in Egypt at the time of the Exodus, Canaan had become a distant memory. Some probably denied its existence, calling it a fairy tale or myth. Furthermore, the king of Egypt was no longer friendly toward the people. Rather than being willing to serve the needs of the people he was a selfish tyrant. He made the Canaanites into slaves, and would never allow them to leave the land. It was a time of captivity.

How often do we get so caught up in the things of the world that they take over our lives and enslave us? Think of the medical doctor who has forgotten her vision of healing and serving and seeks only worldly gain and honor. Think of the parent who is so busy with his job that he forgets to take time to be with his family. After a while the dreams and promises of Canaan become a distant memory. The Canaan ideals and visions of our youth seem like a mere fairy tale or myth in the reality of our adult life. The dream has been forgotten.

The people could not return to Canaan on their own. By themselves, they did not have the strength or the vision to begin a journey out of Egypt. The Lord would have to come and inspire them with the vision of Canaan. Only through His gentle leading would they be able to return to their home in Canaan. By themselves they were trapped by the Egyptians.

Reflections
Do you feel enslaved by situations or people around you? Is there something that holds you back from standing up for yourself?

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Discussion Board
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