Hebrews 11:23 states, "By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment." This verse is a pivotal illustration of the faith of two seemingly ordinary people, Amram and Jochebed, who mothered Moses, an extraordinary leader and deliverer who would eventually lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage.

In the historical context of this scripture, the Israelites were living in perilous conditions under harsh Egyptian rule. Pharaoh, fearing the growing population of the Israelites, had issued a decree demanding the death of all newborn Hebrew boys. It was in this climate of oppression and fear that faith emerged in the heart of Moses’ parents. They saw that he was a "proper child," not merely in the sense of physical appearance but potentially in the divine purpose that lay ahead. The original Hebrew connotes that they saw something special about Moses—perhaps they perceived that God had a special plan for him even before he could speak.

The action of hiding Moses for three months speaks volumes about parental instincts informed by faith. The world often whispers to us that we should fear the powers that be, to comply, and to live in accordance with societal pressures. Yet, Amram and Jochebed exhibited profound courage. They defied the king's commandment as they recognized the sacredness of life and the preciousness of their son. Their faith propelled them to act decisively against a decree born of fear and animosity.

Faith that defies fear is a recurring theme in our spiritual journeys. It requires us to look beyond immediate circumstances and to perceive reality through the lens of God’s promises. Just as Amram and Jochebed could not remain passive when faced with the threat to Moses’ life, we too are often called to act. Whether it’s standing up against social injustice, advocating for the vulnerable, or simply choosing to protect our children’s innocence in a world increasingly hostile to faith values, the call remains: to act in faith despite visible threats.

The fact that they hid him not only showcases their bravery but also highlights the power of a nurturing environment grounded in faith. They likely shared stories of the patriarchs, instilling in him a sense of identity, resilience, and purpose. This spiritual heritage would later serve Moses well as he grappled with his calling and identity as both an Egyptian prince and an Israelite. The very fabric of Moses' character was woven together in those formative years, shielded from the poison of fear.

Imagine the anxiety that gripped Jochebed as she hid her infant son. Every cry must have been muffled, every footstep inapproachable and terrifying. Yet, in those moments, her faith in God must have overpowered the fear of man. This act of hiding Moses was ultimately an act of surrender to divine will. They chose faith, believing that God had a higher plan, even when the reality surrounding them screamed defeat.

As we reflect on this extraordinary act of faith, let’s also challenge ourselves to consider what it is that we might be hiding from the world. What potential within ourselves or our loved ones might God be calling us to protect bravely?

In a world where fear often dictates our actions, where societal pressures can feel overwhelming, we are urged to pray for the faith that sees beyond the immediate circumstance. Just as Amram and Jochebed trusted God with their son, let us trust God with our lives, our circumstances, and the future of our loved ones.

Let us pray for courage to act, and for clarity to see the good and proper 'children'—the potential and divine purpose—in those around us, as we choose faith that defies fear.