Articles
Let Us Return To Egypt!
The Fantasy Of A Safe Place
In the midst of their wilderness wanderings, the Israelites eventually reached a point where they wanted to return to Egypt, for they perceived it to be a place of safety and comfort. “Let us appoint a leader and return to Egypt” (Numbers 14:4). They argued that in Egypt they had abundant food, water, and comforts, and that even slavery was preferable to wandering aimlessly through a barren wilderness. Of course, this is not the last time that Egypt’s mystique would captivate God’s people. Isaiah warned Hezekiah and Judah not to turn to Egypt for help when Assyria menaced them (Isaiah 30:1-5). During Jeremiah’s time, the people of Judah refused to listen to God’s command to make peace with Babylon, instead believing that Babylon was dangerous and Egypt would be a safe place to hide (Jeremiah 42:7-17). Foolishly, they failed to heed the message and found themselves in even greater danger in Egypt.
These people were gripped by the enchantment of a safe life. They believed in the notion that there is a sheltered and secure way of life apart from the path of godliness.
After beginning our journeys with zeal and moral fortitude, many of us lose sight halfway through the journey of our actual goal. The present conditions may seem harrowing, yet where we came from will never compare with what we are striving for. The Israelites had slavery to Egypt and we once had slavery to sin. We strive now for a promised land, in spite of the difficulties on the road.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us”
(Romans 8:18).
The truth is, there is no “safe space” to be found in this world. There is no Egypt to return to because “Egypt” is always a lie we tell ourselves to justify our complaints.
When God wanted Joshua to lead Israel with courage after the death of Moses, He reminded him, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous... do not be dismayed... for the Lord is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9).
