The disobedience of the midwives presents a fascinating and important ethical issue for believers. Were Shiphrah and Puah right to disobey Pharaoh’s edict? If so, why? We know from this passage and others – Daniel’s refusal to not pray (Daniel 6:10) and Peter and John’s refusal not to abstain from preaching the Gospel (Acts 4:19–20) – that we are to follow our governmental law unless it expressly violates God’s law.

While this is important for us to know – and there may be times when we must put this principle into practice – for most of us it is more academic. Few of us will ever be in a situation where a law of the land is in direct conflict with God’s law. But that does not mean this principle isn’t relevant and helpful for us. It’s relevant for a larger reason. Notice why the midwives knew what to do in this situation: They feared God. The same was true with Daniel, Peter and John. The fear of the Lord is what gave them the wisdom to navigate what can be an ethical dilemma and follow God, even if it put their lives at risk.

• How have you disobeyed God, been slow to obey, or obeyed with the wrong heart? Confess these to God and ask Him to help you fear Him.