Thursday, April 09, 2026
Dear friend in faith, today we reflect on the brave actions of Shiphrah and Puah.
Today's Verse
"And the king of Egypt spake to the Hebrew midwives, of which the name of the one was Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah: And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: but if it be a daughter, then she shall live. But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive. And the king of Egypt called for the midwives, and said unto them, Why have ye done this thing, and have saved the men children alive? And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them. Therefore God dealt well with the midwives: and the people multiplied, and waxed very mighty. And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses."— Exodus 1:15-21
Reflection
In a time of oppression, Shiphrah and Puah bravely defied Pharaoh's orders, valuing life over fear. Their courageous faith protected the children of Israel and honored God. Today, when we face pressures to compromise our values, let us remember their example. Stand firm in truth, knowing that God honors those who choose righteousness over compliance.
Courageous faith acts in truth, regardless of fear or consequence.
1-Minute Study: Understanding courageous faith
Shiphrah and Puah exemplify courageous faith by defying Pharaoh's command to kill Hebrew male infants. Their reverence for God outweighed fear of earthly authority. Similarly, David faced Goliath with faith, not in his strength, but in God’s power (1 Samuel 17). Today, standing for truth in workplaces or communities may invite challenges, yet God empowers us to act rightly. Courageous faith is not the absence of fear but choosing to trust God amid it, as demonstrated by Esther when she approached the king unsummoned, risking her life to save her people (Esther 4:16).
Cross References: 1 Samuel 17:45 • Esther 4:16 • Daniel 3:17-18
Prayer of the Day
Heavenly Father, grant us the courage of Shiphrah and Puah, to stand firm in our faith even when it's difficult. May we honor You in our decisions and trust that You are with us, blessing our efforts to uphold truth and life. Amen.
Today's Challenge
Identify a situation where you can stand for truth this week, and take a step to act courageously in faith.
Sacred Art Spotlight
Shiphrah and Puah defy Pharaoh's orders, protecting Hebrew infants.