Theology in Five

Introduction

The Bible is replete with stories of faith, courage, and devotion, often shining through in the most challenging circumstances. One such story is that of Jochebed, the mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. Though her name is mentioned only twice in the Bible (Exodus 6:20 and Numbers 26:59), her influence and legacy are far-reaching. In this article, we delve into Jochebed’s story and the spiritual lessons we can glean from her life.

Jochebed lived in a time of great oppression for the Israelites in Egypt. Pharaoh, feeling threatened by the growing Israelite population, issued a chilling decree: every newborn Hebrew boy was to be thrown into the Nile River. Amid this horrific backdrop, Jochebed gave birth to Moses.

Faith Amid Fear

Jochebed’s courage and faith were evident from the start. Instead of submitting to Pharaoh’s decree, she hid her newborn son for three months. When hiding him became impossible, she made a waterproof basket and set him afloat on the Nile, entrusting her son’s fate to God. This act was not only one of defiance but also of incredible faith. Jochebed chose to trust God with her son’s life, demonstrating the kind of faith that the writer of Hebrews later commended: “By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict” (Hebrews 11:23).

God’s Providence

Jochebed’s faith was rewarded. Pharaoh’s daughter discovered the baby and decided to raise him as her own. Miriam, Moses’ sister, who had been watching from a distance, seized the moment and offered to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the child. Thus, Jochebed was not only able to care for her son during his early years but was also paid for doing so. In this way, God’s providence shone brightly, displaying how divine plans often unfold beyond our understanding or imagination.

Lessons from Jochebed’s Life:

• Faith in the Face of Fear: Jochebed’s story teaches us about having faith in God, even when the circumstances seem impossible. Her faith empowered her to take a significant risk, demonstrating that trust in God often requires courageous action.
• God’s Sovereignty: Jochebed’s story also highlights God’s sovereignty. Despite the evil decree of Pharaoh, God protected Moses and prepared him for his future role as a deliverer of the Israelite people. This underscores that God’s plans cannot be thwarted.
• The Influence of a Mother: Jochebed’s influence on Moses’ life was significant. The early years she spent with him likely instilled in him a knowledge of his heritage and a faith in God. This shows the profound impact parents, particularly mothers, can have on shaping their children’s lives and faith.
• Hope in Despair: Jochebed’s story is one of hope and redemption amidst despair. It reminds us that even in the bleakest situations, God can bring about deliverance and restoration.

In conclusion, Jochebed, though not as prominent as other Biblical characters, is a beacon of courage, faith, and hope. Her story encourages us to trust God in the face of fear and to believe in His sovereignty, even when we cannot see the bigger picture. As we reflect on Jochebed’s life, let us remember that our faith in God can leave a lasting legacy, influencing generations to come.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does Jochebed’s story illustrate the principle of faith in the face of fear? Can you think of other Biblical examples where this principle is evident?
2. Jochebed’s story underscores God’s sovereignty, even amidst terrible circumstances. How can this understanding of God’s sovereignty provide comfort and hope during challenging times?
3. Jochebed was able to influence Moses significantly during his early years. What does this tell us about the importance of spiritual upbringing in the formation of faith and character?
4. The narrative of Jochebed offers a story of hope in times of despair. How can we maintain hope based on God’s faithfulness during our own trials?

Want to Know More?

1. “Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mothers of Today” by Kathi Macias Macias’s book provides insights into the lives of various biblical mothers, including Jochebed. It helps readers understand their strength, faith, and the profound influence they had on their children’s lives.
2. “Women of the Bible: A One-Year Devotional Study of Women in Scripture” by Ann Spangler and Jean E. Syswerda This devotional offers a closer look at women in the Bible, including Jochebed. It provides a daily reading plan that gives insights into their lives and lessons that can be applied today.
3. “Running the Race: A Chapter-by-Chapter Bible Study of Hebrews” by Kitty Anna Griffiths Griffiths’s Bible study on Hebrews includes a deeper dive into Hebrews 11:23, which commends the faith of Jochebed and Amram. It offers insights into the nature of faith and the courage of biblical figures.