The children of Israel multiplied in spite of Pharaoh’s jealousyand fearmongering. Since the Lord is faithful and capable of carrying out his covenant oaths even in the face of the most powerful human opposition, we must trust him and fear him over man.

Jacob’s family multiplied greatly in fulfillment of God’screation plan and blessing. Since the Lord blessed procreation and life even in the face of death, we should value life and trust in the providence of God to protect and provide for his people.

Paul closes the letter to the Ephesians by asking for prayer for himself and encouraging them to receive Tychicus, his messenger, with openness and love.

Believers must prepare to stand, then determine to stand independence on the Lord. Since the armor of God is constituted of the attributes and works of God and his Messiah, we must draw near to him in faith and prayerful dependence in order to stand.

Believers are to live in God’s strength to remain standing in the face of the devil’s attacks. Since the strength we need to stand against the devil is that which only God can provide and which he offers abundantly, we must walk in continual, conscious dependence on him.

Slaves and masters are to serve one another; in doing so they are truly serving Christ. Since believers all belong to God as his slaves, bought and paid for by the blood of Christ, we ought to serve one another joyfully, even if we our slaves, trusting in the Lord.

A spirit-filled home includes children who obey and parents who nurture in the Lord. Since Christ is the Lord of the home as much as he is the head of the church, believers must live out their faith claims in the context of the home and family.

Men chafe at God’s authority and face certain judgment unless they repent and serve him. Since Jesus has come in the flesh, we have the chance to humble ourselves and pay homage to him now before his 2nd coming in glory and judgment.