Tag: God’s compassion
Day 3–Hiding from God’s Call?
Scripture reading for January 28: Exodus 3:9-12“And now, behold, the cry of the people of Israel has come to Me, and I have also seen the oppression with which the Egyptians oppress them. Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” He said, ‘But I will be with you, . .”
We get great insight into God’s heart of compassion for His people when they are oppressed and suffering. Their cries are heard by God and moves Him to action. In this recorded instance, God had been preparing the help for quite a long time. He had set aside a baby boy, born to an Israelite woman and her husband. In Egypt, Pharaoh had commanded all male Israelite babies to be drowned. But this family found a way to trust God by placing baby Moses in a basket in the water. God’s providence placed him in Pharoah’s household and then his own mother was hired to raise the child! Moses understood God’s call on his life through his mother’s training. But when He was older, he ended up running for his life after avenging an Israelite’s mistreatment.
Much later, God got Moses’ attention as he was tending sheep and minding his own business. At a burning bush, God spoke to Moses about the need to deliver His people out of Egypt. (Exodus 3:2-3) Moses made an excuse about his own insignificance. In fact, Moses had difficulty speaking because he stuttered! But Moses’ ability and talents weren’t the important qualifications. God promised to be with him in the whole process and reward him and His people for obedience! (Exodus 3:8)
Many responders, like Moses, have sensed God’s calling but have hidden out on the back side of the desert. God had to arrange for a special revelation to revive the calling again. When we come to understand God’s compassion, desire to bless the oppressed, and use us as His agents, our faith comes alive and a new journey to the promised land begins!
Prayer: Father God, thank You for Your great preparation of those You call and equip to serve. Often You take us through wilderness and trial to prepare our hearts with compassion for the hurting. Increase my faith response to Your call today! Amen.