Read EXODUS 4:1–17
The biblical narratives the past two days are inspirational and instructive, but we might wonder if they’re relevant for us. Esther is an inspiration, but our daily lives rarely include confrontations with empires. Saul is an instructive negative example, but we’re unlikely to be in a position to forfeit a kingdom.
We might relate better to Moses. His self-doubt in today’s passage feels normal or understandable, though it reveals a lack of faith. We empathize with his fear of public speaking (v. 10). We see that his faith grew and developed over a period of time, which is something we also can aspire to.
God appeared to Moses in a burning bush and called him to lead the Israelites out of slavery. Moses’ worries were understandable. Egypt was a world power. The Israelites had been their slaves for four centuries. What reason could possibly entice Pharaoh to let them go? Moses was a disgraced former member of the royal court (having been raised in the palace), and a murderer, now living incognito as a desert shepherd. Why would the Egyptians respect or listen to him? For that matter, why would the Israelites (v. 1)?
God graciously provided for Moses’ worries. Moses’ staff became a symbol of God’s power. He was given specific signs to perform, signs designed to show that Israel’s God was greater than the gods of Egypt (vv. 2–9). God also reminded Moses that He Himself had created speech, language, and the tongue, meaning that He would give him the needed words and speaking abilities (vv. 11–12, 15). He also gave him a helper, Aaron. Despite his reluctance and anxiety, Moses obeyed in faith. And as we know from Jesus’ parable of the two sons, obedience is what matters (see Matt. 21:28–32).
APPLY THE WORD
The classic film The Ten Commandments (1956) can help the life of Moses and the story of the Exodus come alive in our imaginations. Why not take some time to watch or re-watch this movie with family or friends, then discuss it together? What biblical themes emerge as most powerful? How does the film handle the biblical text?
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