What Moses Teaches Us

Over the course of his life, Moses faced one blow, disappointment, or disillusionment after another. Yet through it all, Moses was viewed by the writers of Scripture as one of the most humble servants used by God. He is revered as a father of our faith, the prophet who led the greatest rescue plan for the Jewish nation.

This leader and lawgiver lived a long life listening to God. His legacy is summed up in one word: servant. He served God.

Moses knew that life would be short and frail, and his words were not a warning but an opportunity. We don’t need to fear that our “days are numbered.” We don’t need to worry that unforeseen changes and unexpected detours in our lives will ruin what little time we have.

We can rest in the fact that each day counts as we move closer to the end. The days we wake up, wash our face, and go do life are precious days. Moses teaches us how to learn wisdom and listen to God, even when we’re not sure where we’re headed.

If we were to trace Moses’s life, we would have to make a winding path, but I think Moses would agree that our life is less like a line than a series of steps.

Each step is ordered by the Lord and they don’t always follow a pattern or a path that we can see. Our life is a mixed bag of ups and downs. Good things. Bad things. Unexplained heartache. Disrupted plans.

Moses knew what it was like to face rejection, plagues, miracles, floods, death, judgment, weariness, disappointment, and much more. With each turn of events, Moses remained true to God. He continued to lead the people and, most importantly, to listen to God. In the middle of plans being rearranged, Moses remained a servant of God.

Our lives might not be neatly tied up in a bow, but can I propose something to you? What if shifting your perspective actually reveals enough truth to bring happiness back into your life again? What if you could find comfort in God’s presence, promises, and purpose for you? What if true rest is just around the corner because of God’s goodness in your life today?

My prayer is that you will come to believe God’s promises and see how devastating setbacks can lead to deeper spiritual growth.