Moses’ Misstep: When Zeal Overtakes Dependence on God

Scripture Reading

Genesis 7; Matthew 7; Ezra 7; Acts 7

Key Verse

“But when he was approaching the age of forty, it entered his mind to visit his brethren, the sons of Israel.” (Acts 7:23)

Reflection

As Moses approached his fortieth birthday, a deep sense of duty compelled him to visit his kinsmen toiling in the sunbaked brickyard, the air thick with dust and sweat. He arrived to find an Egyptian taskmaster viciously beating a Hebrew slave. The man’s pained screams echoed through the air.

Moses knew God had saved him from death as a baby, and he’d heard rumors that God was preparing him to confront Pharaoh and free his people. Was God calling him to act now?
Today’s readings repeatedly emphasize God’s call to action. For example, Noah completed all God commanded him (Gen. 7:5). Ezra prepared himself to return to Jerusalem to instruct God’s people (Ezra 7:10). Even Jesus highlights the importance of taking actions at the closing of the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 7:24-27). So, what did Moses do wrong?

We find the answer in Acts 7:25, where “supposed” (or “assumed” in some translations) it was time to act. By making this assumption, he acted within his own strength without realizing that God had a greater plan for him. God, not Moses, would receive the glory for delivering the people from slavery.

Application

Have you sensed God calling you to do something? Although God’s call to action resonates throughout the Bible, it’s important to remember, true obedience requires a simultaneous dependence on God.

Prayer

Lord, I know you call people to do great things in your name. Help me depend on your strength and not my strength.

Closing Thought or Challenge

Pray for God’s guidance on your purpose and then act in faith.