“I will make a distinction between my people and your people. This miraculous sign will occur tomorrow.” (Exodus 8:23 NIV84)

The first few plagues affected everyone. Egyptians and Hebrews experienced water turned to blood, frogs invading their homes, and gnats agitating their very existence. But not anymore! From now on, the Lord was going to make a distinction. The force of the future plagues would only affect the Egyptians. The Hebrew people, God’s people, would be miraculously exempted from the plagues. God was going to distinguish between His people and Pharaoh’s people. Notice: God’s people were the ones miraculously protected.

It’s important that we notice right away that it is good to be on God’s side. It is good to be considered “His people.” He provides special blessing, providence, protection and care for those who belong to His kingdom. Peter says, “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation; a people for God’s own possession…” (1 Pet. 2:9). It’s important to know whose you are! You are the Lord’s. He created you. He redeemed you. He called you by name. He put His Spirit within you. He has made you a member of His kingdom. With that comes important distinctions. As a repentant Christian, God does not hold your sins against you because they have been taken care of at the cross of Jesus. He promises to hear and answer your prayers. He promises to meet your needs in good times and bad. He promises never to forsake you. You benefit from all of these distinctions because, by the grace of God, you are His.

Today, count the benefits you enjoy because of your belonging to God’s kingdom.

Peace!

Pastor Tom

www.firmlyrooted.church