Israel in Egypt: Understanding Suffering Through God’s Perspective

 

"Understanding Suffering Through God’s Perspective"

Scripture Focus: Exodus 1:8–14; Exodus 2:23–25; Romans 8:18

Why would a good and loving God allow His people to suffer? Why did He let the Hebrews remain in Egypt under oppression for so long? These are age-old questions that have stirred the hearts of believers for generations. Today, we wrestle with the mystery of divine timing, the weight of national suffering, and the hope found in God’s ultimate plan.

Why Were the Hebrews in Egypt?

The Hebrews were in Egypt because of God’s providence. In Genesis, God used Joseph’s suffering and rise to power to preserve not only Egypt, but also Jacob's family during a famine. God turned what others meant for evil into good (Gen. 50:20). Egypt became a place of provision.

But over time, Egypt turned from refuge into a prison. A new Pharaoh rose who did not know Joseph, and fear led to oppression. The people of Israel were enslaved, burdened, and beaten.

So, why did God allow it?

• To fulfill His promise to Abraham: In Genesis 15:13, God foretold that Abraham’s descendants would be strangers in a land not their own and would be enslaved for 400 years—yet He promised deliverance.

• To multiply and forge a nation: Egypt was the crucible in which a family became a nation. They entered as 70 people; they left as over a million. Suffering forged their identity and dependence on God.

• To reveal His glory through deliverance: Without suffering, there would be no exodus. Without bondage, no Red Sea miracle. God often uses our lowest moments to display His highest power.

Why Did God Wait So Long to Intervene?

From our human perspective, it feels like God was silent. But Exodus 2:24–25 tells us:

“God heard their groaning and He remembered His covenant… God saw the Israelites and was concerned about them.”

God wasn’t indifferent. He was waiting for the right moment—His moment. Sometimes, the delay is not about apathy, but preparation:

• God was preparing Moses in Midian.

• God was shaping a people who would cry out to Him.

• God’s timing is about eternal purposes, not just temporary relief.

What feels like delay to us is often preparation in the hands of God.

The Importance of Perspective in Suffering

It’s true that the Israelites as a nation suffered for centuries. But each person suffered only within the span of their own life. While the collective suffering was long, each individual's burden was not endless.

Why is this distinction important?

• It helps us understand human suffering in the light of eternity. Our trials may be lifelong, but they are still temporary when compared with the eternal glory God promises.

• Romans 8:18 reminds us:

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”

God deals with generations and nations, but He never forgets individuals. His delays are not denials. His silence is not absence. And His purposes, though often hidden, are always good.

How This Speaks to Us Today

We live in a world still full of oppression, injustice, and unanswered questions. Like the Israelites, we may cry out and wonder, “How long, O Lord?” But God still hears. He still sees. And He still delivers—in His time.

Takeaways:

• God allows trials to accomplish deeper purposes.

• He may delay, but He never forgets.

• Every tear, every cry, every moment of pain is seen by God.

• What we endure is temporary, but His redemption is eternal.

The story of Israel in Egypt is not just a story of suffering—it’s a story of hope, timing, and God's unfailing covenant. Let us hold fast to the truth that even in our darkest hours, God is at work. He hears. He sees. And He remembers His promises.

Lord, help us to trust You when we do not understand. In times of waiting and suffering, give us faith to believe You are working behind the scenes. May we find comfort in knowing that You see us, love us, and will redeem every moment for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More: EXODUS Sabbath School Lesson 1 - Oppression: The Background and the Birth of Moses