Moses: When Plans Break, God Prevails

 

"When Plans Break, God Prevails"

Scripture Reading: Exodus 2:11–25; Romans 8:28

Life can change in a moment. One decision, one action, can completely shift the course of our lives. In Exodus 2:11–25, we see Moses—a prince in Egypt—make a rash decision that alters everything. But what appears to be a failure or detour in human eyes becomes a critical part of God's larger plan.

Moses’ Turning Point (Exodus 2:11–15)

Moses, though raised in Pharaoh’s palace, was deeply aware of his Hebrew identity. When he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew slave, he acted on impulse and killed the Egyptian. Thinking no one saw him, he buried the body—but the next day, he realized his deed was known. Fearing for his life, Moses fled to Midian.

What changed Moses’ life?

• One act of misplaced justice.

• A desire to help, but using human strength instead of divine wisdom.

• The realization that his identity was not truly Egyptian, but Hebrew.

This moment shattered Moses' former life. He went from prince to fugitive, from palace to wilderness.

Lessons from the Detour

Was it God’s plan for Moses to kill the Egyptian?
Most likely not. God does not delight in violence or rashness. But God can and does use even our mistakes. This is the beauty of divine sovereignty. The killing of the Egyptian was a human error, but God used it to begin preparing Moses for something far greater.

Lessons we can learn:

1. God uses broken people: Moses failed. He lost everything. But it was in Midian, not in Egypt, where God would shape his heart.

2. God works through detours: Moses probably thought he had ruined everything. But God was not finished with him. The detour was the training ground.

3. God's timing is perfect: Moses was not ready to lead at 40. He needed 40 more years in the wilderness to learn humility, patience, and dependence on God.

God’s Providence Unfolds (Exodus 2:16–25)

In Midian, Moses finds a new life. He marries, has a son, and becomes a shepherd—learning the very skills he would later use to guide Israel through the desert. Meanwhile, the cries of the Israelites continue in Egypt. God hears. God remembers. God sees. God is preparing.

Exodus 2:24–25 says:

“And God heard their groaning, and God remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. God looked on the Israelites and was concerned about them.”

Even when Moses thought he was forgotten, God was working.

God Can Redeem Any Situation (Romans 8:28)

Romans 8:28 says:

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

This verse doesn’t say all things are good. Moses’ murder wasn’t good. His fear and flight weren’t ideal. But God works all things together for good.

For us today:

• Your past mistakes don’t disqualify you from God’s purpose.

• The wilderness you’re in may be part of your preparation.

• God is sovereign—even over our failures.

Moses thought his life was over after one mistake. But God was just getting started. When we surrender our brokenness to God, He turns it into a masterpiece. Just as Moses was called from a burning bush after years in hiding, so God calls us out of our regrets into His purpose.

Let this story remind you: God doesn't waste anything—not even our worst days.

Closing Prayer:

Lord, thank You that even when we fail, You remain faithful. Teach us to trust in Your timing and providence. Help us to see that nothing is beyond Your ability to redeem. Like Moses, may we learn to walk humbly, knowing You are always working behind the scenes. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More: EXODUS Sabbath School Lesson 1 - Oppression: The Background and the Birth of Moses