Years of chronic illness, sudden shifts in circumstances, and long seasons of difficulty decreased my confidence and increased my anxiety.
What if I get it wrong?
How do I find the strength to show up?
Where do I find the resources I need to complete the task?
Many of the saints of old from the Bible faced the same battle. By their examples, we find hard-won lessons to glean from––and promises to cling to––which can help us move forward and walk in faith.
One such example is Moses. By pondering the character of Moses, we can follow his footsteps on the path of great faith.
An Unlikely Leader
Moses entered the world under the threat of execution as the king of Egypt had ordered the death of Hebrew newborn boys. But Moses’ mother devised a plan to save his life—she placed him inside a basket on the river.
In God’s providence, Pharaoh’s daughter rescued Moses and provided an upbringing within the palace walls. And, as only God can do, Moses’ Hebrew mother was hired to be his wet nurse.
While Moses’ mother supplied him with nourishment, she whispered the truth about his heritage and cultivated a love for his people.
As Moses’ knowledge, skill, and training increased within the Egyptian courts, he never forgot the foundational truth shared by his birth mother.
Then, one day, Moses defended a Hebrew man––to death––who was in the clinches of an Egyptian.
Moses was stripped of titles and rights.
Pharaoh once again ordered his subjects to find and slay Moses.
In fear and in search of safety, Moses fled for his life.
Many miles from Egypt, he became a stranger in Midian. Having drawn literal––and likely figurative boundary lines—Moses resigned to never return to Egypt.
He married, built a life, and became a shepherd.
Perhaps Moses’ life looked nothing like he had planned as a youth. But God was not finished with him yet.
God’s Call to Moses
“Then the Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire within a bush. The LORD said, “The Israelites’ cry for help has come to Me, and I have also seen the way the Egyptians are oppressing them. Therefore, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh so that you may lead My people, the Israelites, out of Egypt.” – Exodus 3:2a, 9-10 HCSB
Maybe Moses came to terms with his life as a fugitive. After 40 years of shepherding, perhaps each day became predictable and comfortable.
He had no idea God was using each moment to prepare him to shepherd a nation.
Then, one day, ordinary became extraordinary.
God set a bush on fire before Moses’ eyes. The miracle of a burning––yet not consumed––bush got Moses’ attention.
God called Moses back to Egypt to lead his countrymen out of bondage. But God’s call didn’t thrill Moses.
God’s Answer to Fear
“But Moses asked God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and that I should bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” – Exodus 3:11 HCSB
Too often, fear rears its ugly head and becomes a screaming monster.
Seeing his own humanity and remembering past failures, Moses deemed himself too small for such a great task.
Moses failed to focus on God’s capability and listed reasons he couldn’t fulfill this mission (Ex 3:11–22; 4:1–17).
But God answered Moses by promising His presence.
The Lord revealed Himself as the all-encompassing Creator who set the world in place.
God also provided a miracle for Moses to show the people, and, in frustration with Moses, appointed Aaron to be his spokesperson.
God had guaranteed the resources needed to deliver His children.
God’s Gift for a Walk in Faith
“But Moses said to the people, “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and see the Lord’s salvation He will provide for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you must be quiet.” – Exodus 14:13-14 HCSB
All of Moses’ reasons for not accepting God’s call became moot when he stepped out to walk in faith and returned to his birthplace.
Upon arrival, the elders believed him, Aaron assisted him, and God empowered him. Each step was another stride toward greater faith.
Moses stood up to Pharoah—and even did most of the talking!
After disastrous plagues, loss, and hardship, Pharoah freed the people of Israel. When Pharoah changed his mind, the Israelites faced the ocean walls of the Red Sea.
As fear struck them, Moses drew from the well of faith down in his soul and comforted the people with the promise of God’s salvation.
Famously, they passed through the Red Sea on dry ground.
Moses, a once terrified leader, was used to deliver the people as God promised.
And his leadership was only beginning. For 40 years, Moses continued to walk in faith, leading the people through the wilderness, and became their mediator with God.
Moses shared God’s 10 commandments with the world, stood in the presence of God, and judged the nation. And today, he is revered for his faith (Heb 3:5).
The same God who showed up for Moses shows up for you and me.
We may not lead a nation out of bondage, but we can lead one. Even if that one is ourselves.
Let’s walk in faith today along the path God has chosen for us.
Wherever He is leading, the Lord goes with us. And He will also provide all we need for the journey––Himself.
Rosann Coulon
Rosann Coulon is the founder of Leaving A Well Ministries. Her desire is to spread biblical hope and encouragement to those living in hard seasons. Rosann has written for various online publications, including Hosanna Revival: WHEN blog, TGC, and Calla Press. Visit Rosann’s website to receive free, encouraging resources. Connect with her on Instagram and Pinterest.
