This chapter begins with a couple of lines that are meant to remind you of something:
"the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful; they multiplied greatly, increased in numbers and became so numerous that the land was filled with them."
"the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and spread"
Remembering back to the promises God makes along the way, we are beginning to see that not only is God sovereign and in control, but also that he is making and fulfilling promises. These two lines are directly reminding us of God's promises not only to Abraham, but also to Adam, Noah, and Jacob.
- God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it." (Genesis 1:28)
- "As for you, be fruitful and increase in number; multiply on the earth and increase upon it.” (Genesis 9:7)
- And God said to him, “I am God Almighty[f]; be fruitful and increase in number. A nation and a community of nations will come from you, and kings will be among your descendants." (Genesis 35:11)
Here's a suggestion as you read through the Bible: keep a Promise Log. Keep track of the promises God makes. Think about how these promises are fulfilled, and look for fulfillment throughout the Bible. Think, too, about what promises are meant not only for the people they are given to, but those that are also meant for the people God of all time.
