Lesson 32B – Exodus 1–2 Women of Courage

400 years later… The Israelites had grown to a “fruitful” and “mighty”. Part of the fulfilling of the promise, the Abrahamic Covenant They were in a relatively peaceful land, compared to Palestine Eventually, the Pharaoh decides they are becoming too powerful God decided it was time for them to leave, calls Moses

Who are the women that influenced the early life of Moses? The Midwives – Ex 1:15-17, – What did they do? How did it affect Moses? – Disobeyed the Pharaoh’s orders Moses’s Mother – Ex 2:2-4 – Hid her son, sent him away, trusted the Lord Pharaoh's daughter – Ex 2:5-6 – Found Moses, new he was a Hebrew, took him in as own son Moses’s Sister – Ex 2:7-9 – Kept watch of baby – Connected baby Moses to mother

What are some of the characteristics of these women? Ex 1:17 – They “feared God”. What does this mean? – They had great reason to fear man, specifically Pharaoh Ex 2:6 – “compassion” – a respect of life and the worth of souls. – An instinctual connection and desire to preserve children Priorities – The pharaoh placed his own power over the lives of others. These women placed the lives of others over their own. What characteristics did it take to risk their own lives and livelihood? – Courage – Faith that the Lord would protect them and bless their choices

How did the characteristics of these women affect Moses as he grew? Ex 2:11-12 – Compassion on the oppressed Hebrew Ex 2:16-17 – Courage to save the daughters from the invading shepherds Ex 3:2-6 – Fear of God, afraid to even look at His face

Mothers Educate Their Children “It is... important to learn how the influence of good women in our lives can complement [our] strengths and overcome [our] limitations. As [we] walk on the way to eternity, it is important to gain some understanding and appreciation for the wonderful endowments and callings God has given uniquely to women” (James E. Faust, “The Highest Place of Honor,” Ensign, May 1988, 36). President James E. Faust Exodus 1:15–22

Moses the man The early life of Moses was surrounded by strong, compassionate women. These women shaped the early life of Moses, taught him true principles. It prepared him to meet God, who took over and turned a good man into a prophet.

Women in your life Write down 3 women who most influence your life for good. – Leave a few lines between each person Fill in the following sentence for each woman: “_______ has been an example of _________ which helped me to ____________________”

Notebook Ideas Expand on your statements about the women in your life. How are you grateful for them? What have people done to affect your life up until now for good? How are you shaping the lives of those around you for good?