(Pharaoh and the Egyptians have chased the Israelites and the Israelite are camping by the sea) "Were there not enough graces in Egypt? is that why you brought us here to die in the desert? Why have you done this to us? Why have you made us leave Egypt? Didn't we tell you in Egypt to stop pestering us so that we can get on with our lives and serve the Egyptians? It would have been better for us to live as slaves to the Egyptians than to die out here in the desert."
Moses said, "Don't be afraid! Stand your ground and witness how the Eternal will rescue you today. Take a good look at the Egyptians, for after today you will never see them again. The Eternal will fight on your behalf while you watch in silence."
Observation
So many times we want great reward without great risk. We are wiling to step out of our safety net in the excitement of the moment, but when faced with opposition we falter easily. This is human nature. However, the God-nature given us say's to press through. We need leaders to help us do that. Leaders call out the God-nature in us. They remind us who God is and His promises for our lives. They encourage us and get us excited about what's next. When all we see is distorted, the leader looks in the God Telescope and tells you what he or she sees.
Application
How would I have responded if I was Moses? Well, my natural reaction would be to get mad or frustrated. I mean, here Moses is sacrificing everything and facing extreme obstacles and the Israelites complain, respond in fear, and basically tell him you dragged us out here to die. The Israelites want to share in the reward but make none of the sacrifice. I see this in ministry quite often. You tell people that the road of righteousness is not an easy one and you do your best to prepare them for it, but when the enemy approaches they blame you and want to run or tell you to take care of it. I am convicted when I look at how Moses responded to the Israelites in love. The love that Moses shows casts out the fear that has taken over. Moses knows who the enemy is and more importantly he knows who his God is, and instead of entertaining fear, he shares what he knows. Instead of getting defensive and he encourages. I desire to lead like Moses, one who responds and leads in love.
Prayer
Father, open my eyes that I can know Your plans for those you have given for me to lead. Help me to look through the God-Telescope when fear starts to cripple those around me. Help me to press past my fleshly frustration and into Your well and draw out the perfect love that casts out fear.
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