Moses: Choosing to wait Part 1

Introduction: Quick Overview of Moses

In studying any great person of faith, we need the proper focus in which to glean Biblical truths. The following truths are applicable in focusing on individuals

1. the real hero and star of every account is God–God reveals Himself as He works through various individuals to accomplish His redemptive plan in Scriptures
2. even the “heroes” of faith as listed in Hebrews 11 were sinful, flawed human beings totally dependent on God’s mercy and grace (like us!).

Quotes are included from Larry Crabb’s book to encourage spiritual discussion and insight. Consider purchasing and reading his book.

https://store.largerstory.com/products/waiting-for-heaven

Moses: Life

Moses was a “miracle” baby. God’s special plan for him began when the midwives refused to obey the Pharaoh’s command to kill the baby boys. His mother devises a plan to ensure his survival. Later when Pharaoh’s daughter found him in the Nile River. He received an Egyptian education, was considered a “Prince of Egypt” prior to his attempt to rescue his own people at age 40. As previously mentioned in my earlier blog post, he spends forty years in the desert tending sheep prior to God’s call and the events of the Exodus.

Moses is a prophet of God as he is crucial in the history and religious development of the Hebrew people. Moses is the author of the Pentateuch (five books–Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy). Moses later appears with Elijah to meet with Jesus during the Transfiguration of Christ. Moses was obviously a noted leader and shepherd to the Hebrew people. When God threatened to destroy the rebellious people, Moses interceded and God relented.

However, I want to point out that Moses himself wasn’t allowed to enter the Promised Land because he hit the rock instead of speaking to it as God commanded. God revealed to Moses that the Hebrews would ultimately be sent into exile for idol worship/breaking God’s covenant. In a sense, Moses failed as he was unable to get the people to trust God and move into the Promised Land. It was the second generation under Joshua’s leadership that began the conquest. The Hebrew people would ultimately prove to be unfaithful to God.

So what does all this mean for you and me? I hope that you are asking this question every time that you consider Moses and how God reveals Himself! First, following God when visible miracles happen (Exodus is full of God’s power on display for all to see), doesn’t mean an easy road or that people will respond in faith! Second, even as followers of Christ, we like Moses will face doubts, fears, trouble(s), and our own faithlessness (remember the rock!). Third, the story isn’t really all about us! The story is about God–His mercy, grace, long suffering patience with us, and how that God remains faithful, good, and loving! The testimony of all Scripture reveals that humans are sinful, self-centered, fearful, and often faithless. God obviously works through broken, sinful people to accomplish His great purposes.

Insights on Moses in Relation to Waiting on God

The following quotes are from Larry Crabb’s Freedom from the Incurable Addiction to Self: Waiting for Heaven. Chapter Five: Moses Waited

Larry gives us three things that Moses turned away from in order to follow God in his life:

Moses seeks God instead of worldly power, wealth, and title. Moses waits for God’s best.

“Second, we’re told in Hebrews that Moses “refused the fleeting pleasures of sin. . . Moses came to see, as must we, that the joy he was designed to experience was found entirely in God’s plan. And that joy must be God’s doing. Moses waited! As must we if we are to live as true disciples of Jesus.” pages 38-39

“Third, Moses turned his back on material wealth. He turned away from living high on the treasures of Egypt. . .As a prince of Egypt, Moses no doubt enjoyed his wealth. Yet he exchanged riches for poverty. Why? God’s call on his life required it. And Moses was “looking forward to the reward” of finding meaning and joy and friendship with God by telling His story, following God’s script for his life. ”

Part 1 Conclusion

In order to obey God, we turn away from position(s), pleasure, and material prosperity as led by Holy Spirit and turn toward God’s call on our life. Our careers, desires for comfort, pleasure, and material gain can become false idols that keep us from true happiness in Christ! If you are truly seeking to follow and honor Christ in your life, expect that God will convict and center you on Him!

Sometimes, I ask myself if it’s worth it to follow God. I address this question:

Is it Worth It All?

Ultimately, your decision will depend on your faith! Every day let’s choose to follow Christ and turn away from all that hinders us! Part 2 of this blog will cover what Moses turned toward! May God graciously remind you of the joys He has in store for you as you faithfully follow, obey, and serve Him!