This week’s Torah reading is Parashat Vaera (Exodus 6:2-9:35). Read on Shabbat, January 17, 2026 / 27 Tevet 5786. The following is a special devotional drawn from this week’s reading.
“God spoke to Moses and said to him, I am the LORD. I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as God Almighty, but by My name the LORD I was not known to them” (Exodus 6:2-3).
Parashat Vaera marks a turning point in the story of redemption. God reveals Himself more fully to Moses and declares His commitment to deliver Israel from slavery. Though the people are discouraged and Pharaoh’s heart is hardened, God remains steadfast. He repeats His promises and reaffirms His covenant, reminding Moses that liberation is rooted not in human strength but in divine faithfulness.
The plagues that follow are not random acts of power. They are signs meant to reveal who God is and to expose the emptiness of false authority. Each plague confronts Egypt’s confidence and challenges its gods. At the same time, God is shaping Israel’s identity, teaching them to trust Him even when deliverance seems slow or costly. Redemption unfolds step by step, often amid resistance and uncertainty.
This portion speaks to seasons when progress feels stalled and hope feels fragile. Moses struggles with self doubt. The people grow weary of waiting. Yet God continues to act, revealing His presence and power in ways that cannot be ignored. Vaera reminds us that God’s timing is purposeful, and His promises remain firm even when circumstances appear unchanged.
Some may be facing obstacles that seem immovable or voices that resist change. This portion encourages perseverance rooted in trust. God sees the full story when we see only a moment. Others may be witnessing small signs of movement after long waiting. Let these moments strengthen your faith and remind you that God is at work even when the process feels slow.
As this Shabbat arrives, take time to remember where God has already revealed His faithfulness in your life. Speak gratitude for past deliverance, even as you wait for new freedom. Choose one way to trust God more deeply this week, whether through patience, prayer, or obedience.
Let your heart rest in the truth that the God who appeared long ago still acts with power and mercy today.
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for revealing Yourself as faithful and strong. Help me trust Your promises when the path is difficult and the outcome unclear. Strengthen my faith as I wait for Your deliverance, and let my life reflect confidence in Your redeeming power. Amen.
Post a comment