Introduction
In the beginning of this sermon, we delve into the background of Moses's birth and the remarkable faith of his parents, Amram and Joabed, amidst the oppression of the Israelites in Egypt. We see how Amram, a Levite, marries Joabed, also from the Levite tribe, and they are faced with the dire decree of Pharaoh to kill their newborn sons. Their faith in God compels them to disobey this command and to protect their beautiful child. This act of courage sets the stage for God’s plans for deliverance.
Main Points
The Choice Made By Amram And
The choice made by Amram and Joabed to hide Moses exemplifies a critical aspect of faith, civil disobedience. Hebrews 11:23 highlights their decision to preserve the life of their son, driven by faith rather than fear of the king’s command.
- This echoes Peter's assertion in Acts 5:29 that we ought to obey God rather than men.
- Their decision not to comply with Pharaoh's orders reminds us that there are times when our faith may lead us to stand against authority when it contradicts God’s commands.
- In their discussion, I noted the meanings of the names of Moses's parents, Amram meaning "exalted people" and Joabed meaning "Jehovah is glory." These names foreshadow their son's d.
- Their choice to raise Moses in the knowledge of God reveals their intention to instill a sense of purpose and divine identity within him.
As Parents And Mentors We Are
As parents and mentors, we are called to impart such truths to those we care for, grounding them in their identity as children of God. Joabed’s act of placing Moses in an ark and setting him afloat on the Nile reflects a profound trust in God’s providence.
- The connection between her actions and Noah’s ark reveals her understanding of God’s saving grace.
- In moments of crisis, we often find ourselves needing to act in faith, trusting God's plans even when they are not immediately visible.
- This is a powerful reminder that sometimes we can initiate actions that align with God's promises, believing that He will intervene.
- As Moses grew up, he experienced an internal struggle between his identity as an Egyptian prince and his Hebrew heritage.
When He Saw An Egyptian Beating
When he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, his reaction to act violently out of anger reflects a common human fault: the tendency to manipulate a situation to achieve our goals rather than waiting on God's timing. D.L. Moody’s insight about Moses illustrates that the years of learning to depend on God are often necessary for His plans to unfold. This reckless moment propels us into caution, urging us to consider how we might sometimes act hastily without seeking God’s will first. Moses's flight to Midian after realizing that his crime was exposed highlights a turning point when he steps into a long period of solitude. Yet this retreat was not wasted; it was a part of God’s sovereign plan for Moses's life.
God Often Uses Our Wilderness Experiences
God often uses our wilderness experiences to prepare us for His calling. Just like the Israelites who cried out to God in their bondage, we, too, can find ourselves in a wilderness. But it is within these trials that God refines our character and equips us for what is to come. The narrative culminates in God’s divine response to the cries of the Israelites. Exodus 2:24 emphasizes that God heard their groaning and remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This act of remembrance indicates that God is not forgetful but rather attentive.
He Engages With His People In
He engages with His people in their suffering, displaying faithfulness despite human shortcomings. Our relationship with God operates on the same covenant basis, rooted in grace rather than merit. Finally, the importance of communication with God is highlighted, reinforcing that prayer is essential to our relationship with Him. When we feel unseen or unheard, God assures us that He is continuously attentive to our needs. Our prayers invite His presence into our circumstances, and He can respond in ways we often do not anticipate. Prayer is not merely our act of asking; it encompasses listening for His guidance as well.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the story of Moses, we are reminded of the intricate ways God works through our faith, actions, and even our failures to fulfill His promises. Whether we are faced with moments that call for civil disobedience, navigating our identities, or enduring periods of waiting, we have the assurance that God is with us, watching over us, and preparing us for the tasks ahead. Trusting in His faithfulness enables us to live in a manner that honors Him while fostering a deeper relationship through prayer and obedience.