Freedom to worship God

 I read a message for encouragement from Israel Bible Institute about Passover and the deliverance from Egypt after so many years of slavery. Because of His love, God promised to deliver Israel. “Say, therefore, to the sons of Israel, ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from their bondage. I will also redeem you with an outstretched arm (בִּזְרוֹעַ נְטוּיָה) and with great judgments (Ex. 6:6).” This deliverance was not only a deliverance from harsh treatment in slavery, but also a deliverance to better serve God. Many times, we become fascinated with the account because of amazing physical benefits these slaves received, not only freedom, but great financial gain. When we do this, perhaps we overlook the greatest benefit was an exit from those who controlled their lives - by those who did not believe in God. Some believers today, follow a similar pathway. They want God to bless them physically, yet they overlook the freedom they possess to worship God because of His grace and love. We must remember that our God is the one to be worshipped and followed willingly, not forced.