How often do think about the mighty hand of the Lord? In Exodus 13, the Lord reminds His people several times of this truth as He gave instructions for the feast of unleavened bread.
And Moses said to the people: “Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the Lord brought you out of this place. No leavened bread shall be eaten. Exodus 13:3
This passage speaks to the powerful, guiding hand of God in our lives, specifically highlighting His strength and intentionality in leading us out of confining places. “For by strength of hand the Lord brought you out of this place” emphasizes God’s power and personal involvement in our lives. True deliverance comes from His mighty hand and His loving intervention.
Where have you seen God’s hand leading you in difficult times? What does this place look like to you? God’s deliverance could be related to relationships, hardship, a habitual sin, weariness, or hopelessness. This verse reminds us that there are time that we can do nothing to make things better but we may make them worse. It is only through God’s strength, not our own, that He will lead us out of the situation.
The call to remember is a recurring theme in Scripture, as God knows that we are prone to forget the moments that He came through for us. It is important to remember God’s faithfulness because it will continue to give us hope and fuel our faith that change is possible.
Generally, leaven has been seen as something that influences us to go in the wrong path. Unleavened bread is free from all impurities and we can feast on God’s provision and faithfulness as we remember what He has done for us. Not eating leavened bread serves as a symbolic act of cleansing, setting apart the day as holy and distinct, just as God set His people apart.
When we reflect on the times God has delivered us—out of sin, addiction, fear, or pain—we honor His work in our lives and cultivate gratitude. This remembrance strengthens our relationship with Him, keeping our focus on His power rather than our own limitations.
God’s hand is not just strong; it is protective and loving. When we can’t see the way forward or feel exhausted from trying, God is working to bring us into freedom. In times when we feel weak, we can trust in His strength. Like Israel’s exodus from Egypt, God uses His power to deliver us into a fuller life of faith, joy, and purpose.
Lord, thank you for your mighty and strong hand that delivered the Israelites and delivered us. Help us to continue to look to you for your mighty hand and outstretched arm to deliver us and to lead us in the way we should go. In Jesus’ name! Amen!
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