Exodus 3:21

Context

This verse is part of God's foundational revelation to Moses at the burning bush, where He commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. After centuries of slavery and harsh oppression, God declares His intention to deliver His people and bring them into the promised land. Exodus 3:21 specifically outlines a crucial aspect of their departure: that they would not leave as impoverished slaves, but with significant possessions.

This promise directly follows God's declaration of His name, "I AM THAT I AM", and His assurance that He has seen the affliction of His people (Exodus 3:7). It also echoes a much earlier prophecy given to Abraham in Genesis 15:14, where God foretold that Abraham's descendants would come out of their servitude with "great substance."

Key Themes

• Divine Sovereignty and Intervention: God explicitly states, "I will give this people favour." This highlights His active role in orchestrating events and influencing human hearts, demonstrating His absolute control over circumstances and people.
• God's Promise of Provision and Recompense: The phrase "ye shall not go empty" is a powerful assurance of divine provision. It signifies not merely survival, but an abundance that would serve as a form of recompense for their generations of unpaid labor and suffering under Egyptian rule. This was not a request from Israel, but a sovereign act of God.
• Justice and Deliverance: This promise is an act of divine justice. The wealth acquired from the Egyptians was not plunder in the sense of theft, but a just repayment for centuries of exploitation and a sign of God's judgment upon Egypt for their oppression. It underscores God's commitment to delivering His people completely, both physically and economically.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "favour" is chen (חֵן), which implies grace, goodwill, or charm. In this context, it's God's supernatural influence causing the Egyptians to look favorably upon the Israelites and willingly part with their valuable possessions. It's not just a natural inclination, but a divinely orchestrated disposition. The phrase "not go empty" (לֹא תֵלְכוּ רֵיקָם - lo telekhu reqam) literally means "you shall not go empty-handed," emphasizing the tangible wealth they would carry out.

Practical Application

Exodus 3:21 offers enduring lessons for believers today:

• God's Faithfulness: This verse reminds us that God is faithful to His promises, even those given centuries in advance. His plans unfold precisely according to His timing and purpose.
• Divine Provision in Adversity: Even in times of oppression or difficulty, God can provide for His people in unexpected ways. He is capable of turning seemingly impossible situations into opportunities for His glory and our blessing.
• Trusting God's Plan: Just as the Israelites had to trust God's word that they would leave with favor and wealth, we are called to trust God's provision and guidance even when the path ahead is unclear. This promise was fulfilled dramatically, as detailed in Exodus 12:35-36, when the Israelites "spoiled the Egyptians."
• God's Ultimate Justice: God ensures that justice is served. While His people may suffer for a time, His ultimate plan includes recompense and vindication for those who trust in Him.