When God’s hand of judgment fell on Egypt, Israel was in a peculiar republic. It was a republic within a republic. Though Goshen was a part of Egypt, it did not witness any of the calamities that befell the greater majority. God shielded them. It is heart-warming to know that God can make a difference between us and the world who do not know Him. He actually promised this in the book of Malachi. “They shall be Mine,” says the Lord of hosts, “On the day that I make them My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him.” Then you shall again discern between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.” Malachi 3:17-18 NKJV

“Righteousness and service are two-edged weapons that we can engage to qualify for exemption”

Exemption could be given en bloc or to individuals. Elijah was one example of an individual who enjoyed God’s exemption clause. Shortly after Elijah proclaimed that there would be no rain, invariably introducing a season of famine in the land, the Lord instructed him to go to the brook at Cherith. That was where he drank from and received a daily ration by the ravens. By this arrangement, God made a difference between the prophet and the rest of the land. Righteousness and service are two-edged weapons that we can engage to qualify for exemption. As woes unprecedented continue to plague the world, we count on the faithfulness of Him who has promised to save us.