When God Calls Us to Trust Him

Read Exodus 12:1-13

What takes place in this section marks a major turning point in Israel’s story. For the first time, God’s instructions are not directed only at a leader, but at households. Every family is given the same responsibility and the same opportunity to respond.

Consider a few observations from the reading.

First, no Israelite is excluded from deliverance. Salvation is obtained by obeying God’s commands.

Second, no one is called to walk alone. Protection is found by participating in community with people of faith.

Lastly, no one is able to remain passive. Obedience requires a deliberate response from every household.

Exercise 1: A Community Effort

Go back through Exodus 12:1–13 and note at least five words or phrases that show how God designed this moment to be carried out as a group rather than individually.

Note: As you read, look for language that highlights households, families, shared responsibility, and collective participation.

Read Exodus 12:21–28

This section shifts the focus from instruction to outcome. The people act, but the text repeatedly emphasizes what God is doing in and through their obedience.

Consider a few observations from the reading.

First, God provides clear direction. Moses passes on God’s commands so the people know exactly how to respond.

Second, God honors faithful obedience. When the people do as they are told, God blesses their actions.

Lastly, God brings promised deliverance. The LORD passes through Egypt, spares the households marked by the blood, and carries out the promise He made.

Exercise 2: Noticing God at Work

Go back through Exodus 12:21–28 and pay close attention to what God is doing or promising to do in this moment.

Note: As you read, list five actions that are attributed to God in the text. Use simple words or short phrases drawn directly from the passage.

The Importance of Support Systems

Israel trusted God while surrounded by others who were walking through the same moment.

Major transitions in life are rarely navigated alone. Even when we have burned bridges, lost close connections, or moved into new environments, the presence or absence of support plays a significant role in how we cope with change.

Exercise 3: Identifying Support Systems

Social capital is a sociological concept that refers to the invisible resources that develop through our relationships and social interactions. This exercise is designed to increase awareness of the support systems currently present in our lives.

Who are the people you interact with most during an average week?

What groups, settings, or communities are you currently connected to (work, school, family, church, social spaces)?

Which of these connections provide practical support such as information, help, or opportunities?

Which relationships tend to open doors or create opportunities for you?

Which relationships do you tend to avoid or distance yourself from during difficult seasons?

Support Inside and Beyond the Present Setting

An ecomap should reflect the support that is actually available, not the support a person is expected to have. Possible connections may include a chaplain, counselor, case manager, program staff member, peer mentor, recovery group, family member, trusted friend, church, community organization, or reentry resource.

For each connection, consider whether it is available now, available only at certain times, or part of a future support plan. A limited support system is not a personal failure. The purpose is to see clearly and identify one connection that could be strengthened safely.

Exercise 4: Draw An Ecomap

A genogram is used to understand a person within their family environment across generations. An ecomap is used to understand a person within their broader social and community environment.