“‘I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ When Moses heard this, he covered his face because he was afraid to look at God.”
Exodus 3:6
“This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God and I trust Him.”
Psalm 91:2
When Moses met God at the burning bush, he was afraid. God asked him to lead the Israelites out of bondage, but he responded, "I can’t!” He focused on his own weakness and questioned, “What if…” Finally, when Moses begged, “Please send someone else!” God became angry with him.
Not the best way to begin a relationship! But thankfully, it didn’t end that way. Moses’ fears turned into bold declarations, “He is MY God and I TRUST Him.” Moses’ focus changed from “I can’t” to “God can!” Moses’ “what IF” became “God WILL.” But how did that happen?
Undoubtedly, Moses had been allotted an overwhelming task—caring for millions of nomads in a wilderness. And during those forty years, he buried a sister, a brother, and two nephews. Moses could have become bitter toward God for calling him to such a life. But instead, Moses’ farewell speech in Deuteronomy assured the Israelites that GOD would never abandon them. They were HIS special treasure. HE would be faithful to lead them and bless them!
So, I wonder, after his fear-filled burning bush experience, what happened to Moses in the desert? Well, he climbed the mountain and sat with God forty days at a time. He also set up the Tent of Meeting and sat with God there regularly. Evidently, THAT is what happened to Moses—he learned to know what GOD is really like!
So, when I pass through deserts in my life, what will happen to me? Will I become bitter or better. The difference is one letter—I. Focusing on the pain I feel or the junk I endure will make me BITTER! But Moses showed us the better way…
Continued in my next blog!
