But the more they oppressed them, the more they increased and spread, so they were disgusted and vexed over the Israelites. 

Exodus 1:12

In order for us to appreciate and internalize the spirituality inherent in the Torah, we must first purify ourselves of as much materiality and other forms of negativity as possible. Thus, one of the purposes of the Egyptian exile was to purify the Israelites, preparing them to receive the Torah.

In this light, it is not surprising that by oppressing the Jews, the Egyptians not only failed to weaken them but made them more prolific. The sufferings of exile serve to increase the power and presence of holiness in the world.

Just as the sufferings of the Egyptian exile purified and prepared the Jews to receive the Torah, our personal and collective sufferings throughout our present exile are purifying us and preparing us to receive the infinite Divine revelations that await us in the Messianic Era. May it be speedily in our days.

--Daily Wisdom Vol. 3