The Bible is full of extraordinary women whose stories often go untold. Among these unsung heroines are Shiphrah and Puah, two midwives whose faith, courage, and defiance shaped the course of history. Their story is brief but powerful, a testament to how even small acts of obedience to God can have monumental consequences.
The Context: A Nation in Peril
The story of Shiphrah and Puah unfolds in Exodus 1:15-21, during a dark chapter in Israel’s history. The Israelites were living in Egypt and had grown into a large and prosperous nation. However, their rapid growth alarmed Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, who feared that the Israelites might one day rise against him. In an attempt to curb their population, Pharaoh issued a horrific decree: all newborn Hebrew boys were to be killed at birth.
It was into this terrifying climate that Shiphrah and Puah stepped forward. As midwives to the Hebrew women, they were given the gruesome task of carrying out Pharaoh’s orders. However, these women chose to honor God over the king, setting the stage for an extraordinary act of defiance.
Courage in the Face of Tyranny
Shiphrah and Puah feared God more than Pharaoh. Instead of complying with his orders, they allowed the Hebrew baby boys to live. When questioned by Pharaoh, they cleverly responded that Hebrew women were “vigorous” and gave birth before the midwives could arrive (Exodus 1:19). Their actions were not only brave but also profoundly wise, demonstrating their resourcefulness in a dangerous situation.
Imagine the courage it took for these women to stand up to one of the most powerful rulers in the world. Their defiance was not just an act of civil disobedience; it was an act of profound faith. They understood that God’s authority superseded Pharaoh’s and chose to align themselves with His will, even at great personal risk.
The Ripple Effect of Faithful Obedience
The decision of Shiphrah and Puah to spare the Hebrew boys had far-reaching consequences. Among the lives they saved was likely that of Moses, the future deliverer of Israel. Their act of obedience played a pivotal role in God’s redemptive plan for His people.
Their story reminds us that God often works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. Shiphrah and Puah were not warriors, queens, or prophets. They were midwives, doing their job in the face of immense pressure. Yet their faithfulness had a ripple effect that changed the course of history.
Lessons for Today’s Women
The story of Shiphrah and Puah holds timeless lessons for women today:
- Fear God Above All Else: Their courage came from their reverence for God. They understood that obeying Him was more important than succumbing to fear or earthly power.
- Small Acts Have Big Impact: Sometimes, it’s the quiet, faithful actions—the refusal to compromise, the decision to stand firm—that have the greatest impact.
- Wisdom in Action: Shiphrah and Puah used wisdom to navigate a dangerous situation. They didn’t confront Pharaoh with open rebellion but used tact and ingenuity to protect lives.
- Faith in God’s Plan: They trusted that God would honor their obedience, even when the outcome was uncertain. And He did. Exodus 1:20-21 tells us that God blessed them and gave them families of their own as a reward for their faithfulness.
Applying Their Example
In our modern world, women often face challenges that require courage and conviction. Whether it’s standing up for what’s right in the workplace, protecting the vulnerable, or raising children to know and love the Lord, Shiphrah and Puah remind us that God sees and honors our faithfulness. Their story encourages us to trust in His sovereignty and act with boldness, knowing that He is always in control.
A Call to Action
As we reflect on the lives of Shiphrah and Puah, let’s ask ourselves: Where is God calling me to act with courage and faith? How can I make a difference, even in the small, everyday moments of life?
May their story inspire us to live with the same unwavering faith and boldness, trusting that God can use our obedience to accomplish His divine purposes. Like Shiphrah and Puah, we too can be vessels of His grace and agents of change in a world that desperately needs His light.
Scripture for Reflection:
- “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10).
- “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29).
- “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
