March 23-29: Exodus 1-6

Written By Center for Latter-day Saint Arts

"I Have Remembered My Covenant"

Sydney Haines (American, born 2000)

Deliverance (2023), from the series Unexpected Answers

Oil on tempered board, 43 x 43 inches

Used with permission of the artist

After Joseph’s death, the Israelites thrive for many years and grow numerous. But eventually a Pharaoh who knew not Joseph enslaves them and orders the killing of their baby boys. Amid this danger, God preserves Moses, who is born, hidden, and raised in Pharaoh’s household, preparing him to become Israel’s deliverer. God appears to Moses as a burning bush, and calls Moses to rescue the Israelites. Despite struggling with doubt and feelings of inadequacy, Moses is blessed by God with miraculous signs and the help of Aaron to fulfill God's plan. Moses confronts Pharaoh, but the Israelites’ burdens don't immediately cease.

Highlighted by these chapters is the idea that God works in ways we may not always understand. Sydney Haines work Deliverance, ponders on the idea that, "...the answer to Jochebed prayer was the daughter of her enemy. " God is faithful, His promises endure, and He prepares and strengthens His people even in the midst of suffering and uncertainty.

Gospel Questions

1.God called Moses to a difficult task even though he felt inadequate. What talent(s) is God calling on you to develop and use despite your feelings of inadequacy?

2. God appeared to Moses as a burning bush and gave him other signs to strengthen his faith. Where do you notice God's presence in your own life? Would seeking to notice him more strengthen your faith?

3. Pharaoh’s initial refusal of Moses made the Israelites’ situation worse. Should increased ease and comfort be the markers of God's active hand in our lives?

For Children and Youth

1. Moses was scared to go talk to Pharaoh and free the Israelites. How does God help you to conquer your fears?

More from the Art Companion

Featured
March 23-29: Exodus 1-6
March 23-29: Exodus 1-6

After Joseph’s death, the Israelites thrive for many years and grow numerous. But eventually a Pharaoh who knew not Joseph enslaves them and orders the killing of their baby boys. Amid this danger, God preserves Moses, who is born, hidden, and raised in Pharaoh’s household, preparing him to become Israel’s deliverer.

March 16-22 Genesis 42-50
March 16-22 Genesis 42-50

Jacob’s sons go to Egypt to buy grain, and Joseph, now governor of Egypt, tests them without revealing his identity. A silver cup is planted in Benjamin's sack, allowing Joseph's brothers’ to protect their youngest brother and demonstrate how they have changed. Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and assures them that God turned their evil actions into good. Jacob moves his family to Egypt, trusting in God’s guidance and provision during the famine.

March 9-15: Genesis 37-41
March 9-15: Genesis 37-41

Genesis 37–41 tells the story of Joseph, the son of Jacob, whose life is marked by deep and repeated adversity. Favored by his father but hated by his brothers, Joseph is betrayed, thrown into a pit, and sold into slavery in Egypt. What begins as family jealousy quickly becomes a long season of suffering and loss. Even when Joseph acts with integrity in the house of Potiphar, he is falsely accused and sent to prison. Injustice follows him, and even those he helps forget him.

March 2-8: Genesis 24-33
March 2-8: Genesis 24-33

Genesis 24–33 follows the next generation of Abraham’s family, focusing on Isaac and Jacob and God’s faithfulness to His covenant. Rebekah and Isaac are united in marriage and begin their family. Their son Esau gives up his birthright to his younger brother Jacob in exchange for a meal. Jacob’s deception to obtain the birthright and blessing leads to complications and long-term consequences. Amid family conflict and personal failure, God meets Jacob at Bethel and Peniel, reminding us that He works through our struggles. By wrestling with God, Jacob grows in faith and character, preparing him for his future role in God’s plan

Center for Latter-day Saint Arts
Next

March 16-22 Genesis 42-50