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The fight for our deliverance is the work of the Holy Spirit.
That initial and ongoing spiritual work of deliverance of God in our lives, like Israel’s literal deliverance, is the shaping encounter for how we relate to God. More specifically, as we’ll see, it forms the basis of the Spirit-formed, Spirit-filled, and Spirit-used life. Of little consequence to God is the nature of your personal deliverances. Of massive importance to God, however, is your perception of these experiences with Him that set you free: how that deliverance shapes your own identity in Him and how the Holy Spirit seeks to use a delivered and filled man in the lives of others. As we’ll see, when God goes to great lengths to deliver His people from any Egypt, He desires that they translate their deliverances into meaningful service for Him.
God’s pioneering pastor was Moses. He had to spiritually recalibrate his troops early and often. In fact, when he needed to light a fire underneath the feet of God’s children, he had a tried and true formula to motivate, remind, and teach them about their purpose on earth. When a man uses the metaphor of circumcision to get his point across he’s not playing nickel poker. That tone means business, and Moses certainly got the men squirming uncomfortably and paying attention. “Circumcise your hearts, therefore and do not be stiff-necked any longer.” Deut. 10:14 What motivates you to live a life of purpose and meaning?
Thank you Father, for showing me how intent you are on shaping my perception of service for you and my fellow man.