January 24 | God Is Still in Control

Today’s Bible in a Year reading from Exodus 9–11 and Matthew 15:21–39 centers on a sobering and hope-filled truth: God’s power is unmatched, His purposes are unstoppable, and His compassion is never absent, even in moments of judgment or desperation. Across both passages, we see God revealing who He is, not only through mighty acts, but through mercy extended to those who recognize their need and respond in trust.In Exodus 9–11, the story intensifies as God confronts Pharaoh’s hardened heart through escalating plagues. These chapters reveal both God’s sovereignty and His patience. Pharaoh is repeatedly given opportunities to respond, yet resistance remains. God’s power is displayed publicly and decisively, making it clear that deliverance does not come from human authority or stubborn strength, but from submission to the living God who acts for the sake of His people.Matthew 15:21–39 presents a different kind of crisis, one rooted not in national oppression but in personal desperation and physical hunger. A Gentile woman approaches Jesus with bold persistence, trusting His mercy despite every barrier. Soon after, Jesus feeds a weary crowd, moved by compassion and unwilling to send them away empty. In both moments, need is met not through status or qualification, but through humble faith and Jesus’ willingness to respond.Together, these passages invite us to reflect on how we respond when faced with God’s authority and God’s compassion. They ask us to consider whether we resist like Pharaoh or approach like the woman who would not let go of hope. Today’s reading encourages us to trust that God is still at work, still powerful, and still compassionate, even when the circumstances feel overwhelming or unclear.