How to Binge-Read Genesis (Without Getting Lost)
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Last week, I wrote about the “Real Housewives of Genesis” and the drama that unfolds in their stories (read that post here). If you are ready to dive into the text yourself, you don’t need a theology degree. Instead, you need the right lens. Watching The Real Housewives requires understanding the unwritten rules of reality TV (the confessionals, the producers, the editing). Similarly, reading Genesis requires understanding the rules of ancient narrative.
Here are three tips for studying these stories, backed by biblical scholarship:
1. Stop Looking for “Role Models”
A common mistake is reading Genesis and asking, “How can I be more like Sarah?”
Don’t. If you try to emulate these women, you might end up mocking God or endangering your family.
- The Strategy: Read descriptively, not prescriptively. The Bible describes what happened. It doesn’t always prescribe it as good behavior.
- The Scholar’s Insight: As Old Testament scholar John Goldingay reminds us, the ancestors of Israel are not presented as moral exemplars but as recipients of grace. We study them to learn about God’s character, not to copy their behavior.
2. Read the “Show Notes” (Cultural Context)
When Sarah gives Hagar to Abraham, or Rachel trades mandrakes for a night with Jacob, it seems bizarre to modern readers. But in the Ancient Near East, these were legal and cultural norms.
- The Strategy: Use a good study Bible or commentary to understand the “why.” You can’t judge an ancient story by modern standards.
- The Scholar’s Insight: Scholar John Walton (author of The Lost World of Genesis) argues that the Bible was written for us, but not to us. To understand the drama, we have to enter their world. For example, Sarah giving Hagar to Abraham wasn’t just jealousy. It was an ancient legal custom to ensure an heir. Understanding the culture reduces confusion and increases clarity.
3. Follow the “Contract” (The Covenant)
In reality TV, everything revolves around who is on the contract. In Genesis, everything revolves around the Covenant.
- The Strategy: Every time drama erupts, ask: “How does this threaten the promise God made to Abraham?”
- Sarah is barren? The promise is threatened.
- Rebekah’s sons are fighting? The promise is divided.
- Famine in the land? The promise is starving.
- The Scholar’s Insight: This is what scholars call “narrative tension.” The story is designed to make you sweat, wondering if God’s plan will fail. By tracing the Covenant, you realize that the main plot isn’t the family drama—it’s God’s relentless pursuit of His promise through the drama.
The Grace in the Mess
So what can we take from this?
- Perfection is Not the Price of Admission: The most profound truth of Genesis is that God does not wait for us to be polished before He uses us. The “Founding Mothers” of faith—Sarah, Hagar, Rebekah, Rachel, and Leah—were driven by jealousy, desperation, and doubt. Yet, they are the very vessels God chose.
- Drama with a Purpose: The conflict in these stories isn’t just for entertainment. It serves as a backdrop for narrative tension. Every barren womb, family feud, and famine was a threat to the Covenant, designed to show that the survival of the promise depends on God’s power, not human stability.
- The “Builders” of the Faith: Despite the toxicity of their rivalry, Rachel and Leah are credited with physically building the nation. This reminds us that God can produce a holy legacy from a messy reality. The resulting Twelve Tribes are a testament to God’s ability to bring order out of chaos.
- The Hero is God: If we look to these women for role models, we will be disappointed. But if we look for God in their stories, we find a faithful Creator who keeps His promises even when His people try to sabotage them.
A Prayer for the “Real Housewives” of Today
Father God,
Thank You that You do not require me to be a “Stepford Wife”—perfect, plastic, and pretending to have it all together. Thank You for the stories of Sarah, Hagar, Rebekah, Rachel, and Leah, which prove that You are not afraid of my mess, my emotions, or my desperation.
Lord, I confess that like Sarah, I often laugh in disbelief when Your promises seem impossible. Like Rebekah, I sometimes try to manipulate outcomes rather than trusting Your timing. Like Leah, I find myself striving for affection and validation.
I ask for the vision of Hagar, to see You as El Roi, the God who sees me in my own wilderness. Remind me that my current drama does not disqualify me from Your plan. Instead, let it be the soil where Your faithfulness grows.
Weave the golden thread of Your redemption through my life today. Build Your house through me, imperfect as I am, and let the glory go to You alone.
In the name of the One who redeems all stories, Amen.
Additional Resources
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
February 2
Exodus 4:18-31, Exodus 5-6, Exodus 7:1-13
Navigating Challenges with Faith
As we delve into Exodus 4:18-31, 5, 6, and 7:1-13, we encounter the narrative of Moses: a tale of obedience, struggle, and divine assurance amidst seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Obedience in the Face of Certain Failure
God’s command to Moses to confront Pharaoh comes with a big problem: Pharaoh’s heart will be hardened, ensuring initial failure. Yet, Moses obeys, embodying a deep faith in God’s plan. This scenario resonates with Job’s story, where questioning God’s intentions becomes a central theme. In Exodus 5, Moses faces the wrath of Pharaoh and the disappointment of his own people, leading to a moment of despair and protest.
God’s Reassurance in Times of Doubt
In these moments of doubt and frustration, God reminds Moses of His omnipotence and promises. God reassures Moses of His commitment to the Israelites, reinforcing His role as the ultimate liberator and redeemer. This dialogue between God and Moses serves as a powerful reminder of God’s enduring presence and covenant.
The Real-Life Struggles of Faith
In Exodus 4:24, a perplexing episode occurs where God confronts Moses for not circumcising his son, highlighting the importance of obedience and holiness. This incident, along with Moses’ repeated doubts and questions, mirrors our human tendency to falter and question our paths, even when divinely chosen.
Word of the Day: Established
Definition: Having been in existence for a long time and therefore recognized and generally accepted.
The concept of ‘establishment’ is pivotal here. God doesn’t promise immediate success to Moses. Instead, He establishes His intent and power, signifying a long-term commitment and plan. This narrative teaches us that divine calling often involves a journey filled with trials and learning, not instant triumph.
Personal Reflections: Echoes in Our Lives
Reflecting on my personal experiences, whether in writing, starting a crisis pregnancy center, or adopting children, I’ve realized that divine callings are rarely straightforward or easy. They demand perseverance, learning, and often, facing our own shortcomings and doubts.
The Promise of Divine Accompaniment
Despite Moses’ repeated failings – his past actions, doubts, and hesitations – God’s reassurance in is clear and profound. God promises liberation, redemption, and a future to the Israelites. He acknowledges Moses’ flaws but continues to guide and use him for a greater purpose.
Embracing Our Imperfect Journey with God
Our journey with God might be riddled with challenges and self-doubt, but the story of Moses teaches us that divine presence and guidance are constant. God’s promises are not of an easy path, but of His unwavering support and ultimate fulfillment of His plans through us, despite our imperfections. Let’s embrace this journey, understanding that our struggles and questions are part of a larger, divine narrative.
February 3
Exodus 7-9
Unraveling the Deeper Meaning Behind the Plagues
As we revisit the tales of the plagues from the Book of Exodus, memories of Sunday School drawings and simplistic interpretations come to mind. However, as adults, we understand the depth and intensity of these plagues, signs and wonders far beyond child’s play.
The Plagues: A Divine Display of Power
The plagues, starting with the Nile turning to blood, followed by invasions of frogs, gnats, and flies, are not just random occurrences. Each plague strikes at the core of Egyptian life and belief, challenging the power of their gods. For seven days, the Egyptians had no clean water to drink. Pharaoh’s magicians replicated some of these plagues, yet Pharaoh’s heart remained unyielding, only to harden further with each subsequent plague.
The Symbolism Behind the Plagues
In my first biblical novel, “The Elder Sister,” I delved into the significance of each plague, discovering their symbolic attack on various Egyptian deities:
- Nile to Blood: A direct challenge to Hapi, the Egyptian god of the Nile.
- Frogs: An affront to Heqet, the goddess of birth, depicted with a frog’s head.
- Gnats: A defiance of Set, the god of desert storms.
- Flies: An obscuration of Re, the sun god.
- Death of the Livestock: A blow to Hathor and Apis, deities represented by a cow and a bull.
- Boils: An assault on Sekhmet, the goddess with power over disease.
- Hail: A confrontation of Nut, the sky goddess, and Osiris, the god of crops and fertility.
Each plague represented a calculated move by the true God, showcasing His supremacy over the Egyptian pantheon.
Word of the Day: Show
Definition: A spectacle or display, typically an impressive one.
Exodus 7:17 states, “So this is what the Lord says: ‘I will show you that I am the Lord.’” This “show” of plagues was more than a display of divine might; it was a lesson for Pharaoh, Moses, and the Israelites. The plagues were a demonstration that Yahweh was the true and only God.
The Purpose Behind the Divine Spectacle
God’s orchestration of the plagues served a dual purpose. For Pharaoh, it was a direct challenge to his belief system and power. For Moses and the Israelites, it was an affirmation of Yahweh’s omnipotence and a reassurance of His commitment to their liberation. Sometimes, God’s ways of showing off are meant to provide us with something tangible to cling to in times of doubt and fear.
A Lesson in Faith and Power
The story of the plagues is a powerful reminder of God’s unmatched power and His willingness to go to great lengths to free His people. As we revisit these stories with a deeper understanding, we gain a new appreciation for the ways in which God asserts His sovereignty and cares for His chosen people.
February 4
Exodus 10-12
The Plagues, Pain, and the Power of Being Lifted Up
The Unfolding of the Plagues: A Tale of Resilience and Faith
In the biblical narrative of Exodus, we witness the unfolding of the first seven plagues – a series of catastrophic events that brought Egypt to its knees. Yet, as we delve deeper into the story, we see these events were just the beginning. The eighth plague, the locusts, marks a continuation of a series of signs meant to demonstrate God’s power.
The Deeper Meaning Behind God’s Actions
Exodus 10:1 reveals God’s intention behind these plagues – not just to punish but to make known His power and ensure that these events would be recounted for generations. This serves as a reminder of God’s omnipotence and His masterful orchestration of events. We also see the struggle of Moses, who, despite knowing that his pleas to Pharaoh would initially be in vain, persisted.
The Significance of the Passover
Then, we are introduced to the instructions for the first Passover. This detailed and specific ritual, including the selection and sacrifice of a lamb, is a testament to God’s nature: holy, organized, detailed, and expectant of obedience. The Passover not only commemorates the Israelites’ liberation but also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice – the Lamb of God.
John 12:32: A Reflection of Sacrifice and Salvation
John 12:32 resonates deeply with the Passover story, as it speaks of Christ being ‘lifted up’ to draw all people to Himself. This lifting up on the cross is a poignant parallel to the Passover lamb and serves as the ultimate act of love and redemption.
Navigating Pain and Finding Comfort
Recently, a conversation with a friend enduring immense pain after surgery brought to light the complexities of suffering. We often grapple with the ‘why’ behind pain, just as the Israelites might have questioned their suffering. In these moments, offering simple presence and empathy can be more comforting than seeking reasons or explanations.
Word of the Day: Lifted
Definition: To raise to a higher position or level.
The concept of being ‘lifted’ takes on a multifaceted meaning in these contexts. In times of pain and uncertainty, we can lift each other through prayer and support. This act of lifting not only helps those in pain but also strengthens us, providing courage and resilience.
Embracing the Role of Lifting in Our Spiritual Journey
As we navigate our own challenges and support others through theirs, the act of lifting becomes central to our spiritual journey. Whether lifting our friends in prayer, being lifted by God’s grace, or lifting our praises to God, as in Michael W. Smith’s “Open the Eyes of My Heart,” these acts of elevation bring us closer to understanding and experiencing the divine.
Finding Strength in the Midst of Struggles
The story of the plagues, the Passover, and our personal battles with pain and suffering remind us that even in the darkest times, there is hope and strength to be found. By lifting each other up and focusing on the divine, we can navigate the most challenging circumstances with faith and resilience.
February 5
Exodus 13-15
Does God Have a Plan?
This part of the Exodus story is a thrilling reminder of God’s power and plan. Despite the Israelites’ fear as the Egyptians pursued them, God planned to display His glory through Pharaoh’s defeat, demonstrating His sovereignty.
The Power of Deliverance
The crossing of the Red Sea showcases God’s mighty hand, a theme echoed in the Song of Moses, a hymn of salvation. Rich Mullins’ song “My Deliverer” poignantly captures this sentiment, reminding us of the unbreakable promises of God. The deliverance from Egypt reminds us of God’s ability to bring salvation against seemingly impossible odds.
Forgetting and Remembering
At Marah, the Israelites’ encounter with bitter waters becomes a metaphor for our tendency to forget God’s greatness and promises. This recurring theme of forgetfulness versus the remembrance of God’s deeds is a powerful lesson in faith.
Word of the Day: Dedicate
Definition: To devote (something or someone) to a particular subject or purpose.
When we dedicate ourselves and our children to God, we may not see the immediate outcome, but we can trust His grand design.
Dedication of the Firstborn
In Exodus 13:2, God commands the Israelites to dedicate every firstborn. This points to the ultimate dedication of Jesus, His firstborn son. This act symbolizes a deeper meaning of redemption and sacrifice, themes that are central to the faith journey.
The Concept of Redemption
The term “redeem” is the price paid for rescue or deliverance. This is vividly portrayed in the pidyon ha-ben ceremony, where the father redeems his firstborn son, symbolizing that redemption transcends monetary value and points towards a spiritual exchange.
The Personal Story of Thomas Graumann
The story of Thomas Graumann, a Holocaust survivor, beautifully illustrates the power of dedication and God’s plan. His journey from being a Jewish child sent to safety on a Kindertransport to becoming a Christian missionary is a testament to the mysterious ways in which dedication and faith can shape a life. His mother’s will, hoping for him to join a Christian family and become a missionary or pastor, reveals a remarkable foresight and faith.
The Symbol of Jesus in Passover
The Passover symbolizes Jesus’s ultimate sacrifice, the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,” as proclaimed by John the Baptist. Like the Israelites’ journey, Thomas’ story reminds us of the profound impact of faith and dedication. It teaches us that while we may not always see the immediate results of our dedication, a greater plan at work often transcends our understanding but always holds promise for redemption and hope.
February 6
Exodus 16-19
Manna, Quail, and Water from a Rock
Today’s journey begins with a remarkable story of sustenance–manna and quail provided by heaven itself. This miraculous event directly responds to the Israelites’ hunger and complaints, underscoring their physical needs and God’s unwavering care. It’s a powerful reminder that we are never forsaken, even in the most desolate wildernesses.
Water from a Rock: A Testament of Faith
The narrative takes an extraordinary turn with water flowing from a rock. Yes, a rock! Following God’s guidance, the parched and desperate Israelites witnessed Moses striking a rock, from which water gushed. This quenches their thirst and serves as a testament to God’s mercy and might. Moses names the sites Massah and Meribah, symbolizing the Israelites’ testing and quarreling and highlighting God’s patient provision.
Battle Against the Amalekites: A Clash of Descendants
The saga continues with the Israelites confronting the Amalekites, led by Amalek, a descendant of Esau. This confrontation isn’t just a battle; it’s the unfolding of a prophecy made to Rebecca about two nations stemming from her womb. The descendants of Jacob (Israelites) and Esau (Amalekites) clash, representing a larger spiritual conflict. With Aaron and Hur’s support, Moses leads his people to victory, marking a significant moment in the Israelites’ journey.
Jethro’s Wisdom: Leadership and Faith
Another highlight is Jethro’s visit to Moses. Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, acknowledges God’s greatness and imparts crucial leadership advice to Moses. This interaction is a testament to the transformative power of witnessing God’s deeds, leading even a priest of other gods to recognize the one true God.
The Revelation at Sinai: A Covenant with Conditions
The chapters culminate with the Lord revealing Himself at Mount Sinai. Here, God lays out a covenant with a pivotal condition: obedience in exchange for being chosen as His special treasure. This moment is significant as it establishes the Israelites as a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, setting the stage for their unique relationship with God.
The Importance of Sabbath: A Lesson in Trust and Rest
These narratives also show the Israelites grumbling and complaining, yet God consistently provides. Interestingly, this includes specific instructions about the Sabbath–a day of complete rest and a practice that dates back to creation. This emphasis on the Sabbath is a call to trust in God’s provision and to set aside time for spiritual reflection and rest.
Word of the Day: Testify
Definition: To give evidence or bear witness;
Today’s reading is a reminder of our role in sharing the wonders of God’s deeds in our lives and history.
The Power of Testimony: Sharing God’s Works
Finally, we discuss the importance of testifying or sharing what God has done in our lives. Moses’ testimony to Jethro and the command to preserve the story of the manna for future generations are powerful examples. Sharing our experiences of God’s work strengthens our faith and can profoundly impact others, as illustrated by the life-changing conversation on a flight.
These biblical chapters are more than historical accounts; they are rich with lessons in faith, providence, and the importance of sharing and preserving God’s works. As we reflect on these narratives, let us be inspired to trust, obey, and testify to the great works of God.
February 7
Exodus 20-21, Exodus 22-1-15
Navigating Life with the Ten Commandments
In the heart of the biblical narrative, God begins the Ten Commandments with a powerful introduction, “I am the Lord your God,” immediately reminding His people of His deliverance from Egypt, the land of their slavery. This preamble sets the stage for the following commandments, intricately divided into two segments: the first four focusing on our relationship with God and the last six concerning our interactions with each other.
1. You must not have any other god but me.
2. You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind.
3. You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God.
4. Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
5. Honor your father and mother.
6. You must not murder.
7. You must not commit adultery.
8. You must not steal.
9. You must not testify falsely against your neighbor.
10. You must not covet… anything that belongs to your neighbor.
These commandments serve as more than ancient laws; they mirror our imperfections and remind us of our innate tendency to worship ourselves and rely on our own merits. They starkly reveal how far we’ve strayed and how desperately we need a Savior, as none can stand before God justified by these laws alone. This realization is humbling and liberating, pointing us toward the perfect fulfillment of these laws in Christ.
The experience of the Israelites at Sinai, overwhelmed by God’s presence to the point of fear, challenges our modern queries of desiring a tangible display of God. Yet, their immediate return to sin post-revelation underscores a profound truth: external manifestations alone cannot transform the human heart.
As we progress through Exodus, we see God’s laws extending to societal structures, from the construction of altars to the treatment of slaves and the protection of personal property. These instructions were not arbitrary but tailored to guide a community freshly freed from oppression toward a just and orderly society grounded in respect for God and fellow humans.
Word of the Day: Instruct
Definition: To direct or command someone to do something, especially as an official order.
This word resonates deeply, especially as a homeschooling mom. Instructions guide us towards what’s good and beneficial. If only my children listen to my instructions and make good decisions! Yet, our human nature often leans towards self-centeredness, highlighting the insufficiency of laws alone to foster genuine obedience.
This biblical journey through the Ten Commandments and beyond reminds us of our continuous need for grace and the transformative power of a heart aligned with God’s will. It’s a call to reflect on our lives, recognizing that true obedience springs from a heart changed by love, not fear of retribution. In daily living, these ancient words still speak, guiding us toward a reverence for God and genuine love for our neighbors.
February 8
Exodus 22:16-3, Exodus 23-24
Embracing the Fullness of God’s Promises
Today’s scriptures bring us into the heart of Exodus, where we encounter a blend of divine instructions, promises, and intimate encounters that paint a vivid picture of God’s relationship with His people.
Exodus 22 and 23 layout not just rules but a blueprint for living a life that honors God and respects others. Among these instructions, the principle of Sabbath rest stands out, teaching us the value of renewal for both the land and our souls.
Exodus 23 introduces us to justice, urging us to avoid spreading rumors, resist the urge to follow the crowd blindly and extend help even to those we might consider enemies. This chapter also reiterates the importance of rest, not just as a command but as a divine rhythm of life and renewal, culminating in the instruction to let the land lie fallow every seventh year.
The passage then reveals the celebration of three annual festivals, marking significant moments in Israel’s journey and relationship with God. These festivals are not merely agricultural milestones but spiritual commemorations of God’s deliverance, provision, and continual protection.
A striking aspect of these narratives is the appearance of an angel, believed to be a pre-incarnate manifestation of Christ, guiding and protecting the Israelites. This divine intervention serves as a reminder of God’s unwavering presence and salvation throughout history.
In Exodus 24, we witness a profound covenant moment as Moses, Aaron, and the elders ascend the mountain to meet God. Here, they see the divine presence, represented with vivid imagery of lapis lazili, and share a covenant meal in God’s presence, a moment of awe-inspiring intimacy and fellowship.
Word of the Day: Apply
Definition: To be applicable or relevant.
This journey through Exodus is not just about ancient history; it’s about how we apply God’s laws and promises to our lives today. “Apply” comes from the Latin “applicare,” meaning to fold or fasten to. God’s instructions, celebrations, and promises require us to apply them actively to our lives, integrating His truths into the fabric of our daily existence.
Reflecting on my journey, I see parallels in my dedication to God at 17 and how we are called to embrace His laws, celebrate His provision, and rely on His promises. Just as the blood of the covenant was applied to the people, signifying their acceptance of God’s instructions, we, too are invited to apply the sacrifice of Christ to our lives, allowing us to sit in fellowship with God daily.
This reflection brings to mind my relationship with my adopted children. Some have fully embraced our relationship, while others, out of fear and past hurts, hold back, missing out on the fullness of love and family we could share. Similarly, our relationship with God requires us to let go of our fears and fully accept His love and sacrifice, allowing us to experience the fullness of His presence in our lives.
Exodus teaches us the importance of applying God’s laws, celebrating His goodness, and trusting in His promises. It’s a call to move beyond mere belief to a lived experience of faith, where we fasten ourselves to God and embrace the fullness of His love and salvation.
