Living with Godly Character in a Challenging World
In a world that often seems to prioritize power, prestige, and self-interest, how can we live with true godly character? This question becomes even more pressing when our values clash with societal norms or authority figures. The story of two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, offers profound insights into this dilemma and teaches us valuable lessons about faith, courage, and moral integrity.
Imagine living in ancient Egypt, where the Israelites were enslaved and oppressed. The Pharaoh, fearing the growing Israelite population, issued a horrific decree: all newborn Hebrew boys were to be killed. It's in this dark context that Shiphrah and Puah's story unfolds. These women, tasked with assisting Hebrew mothers during childbirth, faced an impossible choice – obey the Pharaoh's command or defy it to save innocent lives.
Their decision speaks volumes about the nature of true godly character:
1. Doing the right thing, even when commanded otherwise
Shiphrah and Puah chose to disobey the Pharaoh's order, allowing the baby boys to live. This raises a crucial question: Who determines what is right and wrong? In a world of relative morality, the Bible affirms that there is absolute truth, and it comes from God alone. Jesus himself declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). When human laws conflict with God's higher moral code, we must have the courage to stand for what is right.
2. Fearing the right person, even when everything is on the line
The midwives' actions are described as stemming from their fear of God, rather than fear of the Pharaoh. This "fear" isn't about terror, but a deep reverence and trust in God's goodness and authority. Proverbs 9:10 reminds us that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Shiphrah and Puah understood that there is a higher authority than earthly rulers, and they aligned their actions accordingly.
3. Loving others as much as themselves
By protecting these vulnerable infants, the midwives demonstrated profound love for their community. They risked their own safety and livelihood for the sake of others. This echoes Jesus' teaching about the greatest commandments: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40).
The story of Shiphrah and Puah challenges us to examine our own lives. Are we living with the same level of moral courage and compassion? Do we prioritize God's truth over societal pressures? Are we willing to face potential consequences for doing what is right?
It's important to note that living with godly character isn't about rigid rule-following. Jesus often clashed with religious leaders who had turned faith into a burdensome list of regulations. Instead, He emphasized that true righteousness flows from a transformed heart and a genuine relationship with God.
The apostle Paul echoes this in Romans 12:2, urging believers to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." As we spend time with God and fellow believers, our character should increasingly reflect that of our Heavenly Father. This transformation impacts every area of our lives – our relationships, work ethic, and how we engage with the world around us.
The story of Shiphrah and Puah is part of a larger biblical narrative that highlights the crucial role of courageous individuals, often women, in pivotal moments of history. Consider:
- Moses' mother and sister, who devised a plan to save him as a baby
- Hannah, whose fervent prayer led to the birth of the prophet Samuel
- Mary, who said "yes" to God's plan to bring the Savior into the world
- The women who supported Jesus' ministry and witnessed His resurrection
These examples remind us that God often works through unexpected people and seemingly small acts of faith to accomplish His purposes.
Living with godly character in today's world presents its own set of challenges. We may not face life-or-death decisions like Shifra and Puah, but we encounter moral dilemmas in our workplaces, relationships, and daily choices. Here are some practical ways to cultivate godly character:
1. Prioritize your relationship with God through prayer, Scripture study, and worship.
2. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can encourage and challenge you.
3. Regularly examine your motives and actions in light of God's Word.
4. Be willing to stand up for what is right, even when it's unpopular or costly.
5. Look for opportunities to show love and compassion to others, especially the vulnerable.
6. Remember that character is formed through small, consistent choices over time.
The story of Shifra and Puah reminds us that our choices matter. In a world that often seems chaotic and morally adrift, we have the opportunity to be beacons of light and truth. By living with godly character, we not only honor God but also become catalysts for positive change in our spheres of influence.
Let's be inspired by these courageous midwives. May we, like them, choose to fear God above all else, to do what is right even when it's difficult, and to love others sacrificially. In doing so, we participate in God's ongoing work of redemption and transformation in the world.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, may we hold fast to the truth that there is a God who loves us, who has defeated death through Jesus Christ, and who calls us to a life of purpose and integrity. Let our lives be a testament to His character, drawing others to the hope and life found in Him.
In a world that often seems to prioritize power, prestige, and self-interest, how can we live with true godly character? This question becomes even more pressing when our values clash with societal norms or authority figures. The story of two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, offers profound insights into this dilemma and teaches us valuable lessons about faith, courage, and moral integrity.
Imagine living in ancient Egypt, where the Israelites were enslaved and oppressed. The Pharaoh, fearing the growing Israelite population, issued a horrific decree: all newborn Hebrew boys were to be killed. It's in this dark context that Shiphrah and Puah's story unfolds. These women, tasked with assisting Hebrew mothers during childbirth, faced an impossible choice – obey the Pharaoh's command or defy it to save innocent lives.
Their decision speaks volumes about the nature of true godly character:
1. Doing the right thing, even when commanded otherwise
Shiphrah and Puah chose to disobey the Pharaoh's order, allowing the baby boys to live. This raises a crucial question: Who determines what is right and wrong? In a world of relative morality, the Bible affirms that there is absolute truth, and it comes from God alone. Jesus himself declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). When human laws conflict with God's higher moral code, we must have the courage to stand for what is right.
2. Fearing the right person, even when everything is on the line
The midwives' actions are described as stemming from their fear of God, rather than fear of the Pharaoh. This "fear" isn't about terror, but a deep reverence and trust in God's goodness and authority. Proverbs 9:10 reminds us that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Shiphrah and Puah understood that there is a higher authority than earthly rulers, and they aligned their actions accordingly.
3. Loving others as much as themselves
By protecting these vulnerable infants, the midwives demonstrated profound love for their community. They risked their own safety and livelihood for the sake of others. This echoes Jesus' teaching about the greatest commandments: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40).
The story of Shiphrah and Puah challenges us to examine our own lives. Are we living with the same level of moral courage and compassion? Do we prioritize God's truth over societal pressures? Are we willing to face potential consequences for doing what is right?
It's important to note that living with godly character isn't about rigid rule-following. Jesus often clashed with religious leaders who had turned faith into a burdensome list of regulations. Instead, He emphasized that true righteousness flows from a transformed heart and a genuine relationship with God.
The apostle Paul echoes this in Romans 12:2, urging believers to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." As we spend time with God and fellow believers, our character should increasingly reflect that of our Heavenly Father. This transformation impacts every area of our lives – our relationships, work ethic, and how we engage with the world around us.
The story of Shiphrah and Puah is part of a larger biblical narrative that highlights the crucial role of courageous individuals, often women, in pivotal moments of history. Consider:
- Moses' mother and sister, who devised a plan to save him as a baby
- Hannah, whose fervent prayer led to the birth of the prophet Samuel
- Mary, who said "yes" to God's plan to bring the Savior into the world
- The women who supported Jesus' ministry and witnessed His resurrection
These examples remind us that God often works through unexpected people and seemingly small acts of faith to accomplish His purposes.
Living with godly character in today's world presents its own set of challenges. We may not face life-or-death decisions like Shifra and Puah, but we encounter moral dilemmas in our workplaces, relationships, and daily choices. Here are some practical ways to cultivate godly character:
1. Prioritize your relationship with God through prayer, Scripture study, and worship.
2. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can encourage and challenge you.
3. Regularly examine your motives and actions in light of God's Word.
4. Be willing to stand up for what is right, even when it's unpopular or costly.
5. Look for opportunities to show love and compassion to others, especially the vulnerable.
6. Remember that character is formed through small, consistent choices over time.
The story of Shifra and Puah reminds us that our choices matter. In a world that often seems chaotic and morally adrift, we have the opportunity to be beacons of light and truth. By living with godly character, we not only honor God but also become catalysts for positive change in our spheres of influence.
Let's be inspired by these courageous midwives. May we, like them, choose to fear God above all else, to do what is right even when it's difficult, and to love others sacrificially. In doing so, we participate in God's ongoing work of redemption and transformation in the world.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, may we hold fast to the truth that there is a God who loves us, who has defeated death through Jesus Christ, and who calls us to a life of purpose and integrity. Let our lives be a testament to His character, drawing others to the hope and life found in Him.
Recent
Archive
2025
Categories
no categories
Tags
no tags