It is helpful to examine scripture from multiple perspectives as a shift in lens often helps us understand God, the text, and ourselves better. Consider Today’s Holy Nougat, for example.
Exodus 17:2-3 AFV
[2] And the people argued with Moses and said, “Give us water that we may drink.” And Moses said to them, “Why do you argue with me? Why do you tempt the Lord?”
[3] And the people thirsted there for water. And the people murmured against Moses and said, “Why is this, that you brought us up out of Egypt to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?”
Moses responded
On the whole, we tend to think of and portray Moses as unflappable and calm, never losing his temper. Yet, a quick re/read of Exodus 2 tells us that he had a serious temper. A dangerous one even. His anger at an unjust system resulted in one man’s death and his self-imposed exile. We should not be surprised, therefore, that he put them all in their place.
Self-Check
How do we respond when others try to harass us to death? Do we maintain healthy measures of self-control?
Deeper Dive
It must be stated that Moses did not doubt his calling. While he questioned God’s choice (see Exodus 3-4), the nature of God’s call on his life – the burning bush, signs, and wonders, along with a reprimand or two – confirmed to Moses that YHWH had chosen him. Yet, nowhere in the call did God say, ‘Oh Moses, your task will be easy.’ Not at all. In fact, as Moses presented potential obstacles, YHWH offered solutions. Leadership does not come with guarantees of an easy ride.
Absolutely not.
What we see however, in this very trying scene, was Moses exercising great restraint. Instead of flipping his lid, Moses noted that their attitude was rebellion against YHWH, Who called him, not against Moses. That is what we call putting things in the right perspective.
Siblings, others may affirm God’s call on our lives – they are not God. And, while it is important that we take their needs and thoughts into perspective, like Moses, we must be clear about Who it is that called us. Having clarity about our task is also very important. We will find that waiting on the affirmations from the crowd can lead to bitterness if they aren’t forthcoming.
As a pastor once preached on the topic of anger management, it is not for us to get bitter, but to get better. Can you imagine how surprised some of them would have been to see neutral Moses responding to the outcry? We do know the impact of our calm demeanor on folks who’ve known our former character. What a testimony our shift in perspective can be for others! May God get the glory in times of harassment and testing.
Point to Ponder
As a leader, how might we respond differently to provocation? As those under leaders who are harassed, ensued might we do to support the leader?
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May all we seek be found in Christ
