Jethro: Wise Praise and Wise Counsel

 

Wise Praise and Wise Counsel

Text: Exodus 18:1–27

Exodus 18 is a turning point in Israel’s history. They have been delivered from Egypt, crossed the Red Sea, seen God’s provision of food and water in the wilderness—and now, in this chapter, two crucial moments take place. First, Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, comes to visit and hears about the mighty acts of God. Second, Jethro gives Moses wise counsel that changes the way leadership is carried out among God’s people. In this chapter, we learn about praising God before others and humbly accepting godly advice.

Jethro Praises God for His Mighty Acts (Exodus 18:1–12)

When Jethro arrives, Moses tells him all that the Lord has done to Pharaoh and Egypt, and how God has delivered His people. Jethro’s reaction is immediate—he praises the Lord, saying, “Now I know that the Lord is greater than all gods” (v. 11).

This is more than a polite acknowledgment; it’s a declaration of faith and recognition of God’s supremacy. It shows us something important: sharing what God has done is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to witness to others. Moses didn’t have to persuade Jethro with arguments—he simply told the story of God’s power and faithfulness.

For us, this means we should not underestimate the impact of telling others how God has worked in our lives. Your testimony might be the very thing that turns someone’s heart toward the Lord.

Jethro’s Wise Counsel to Moses (Exodus 18:13–23)

The next day, Jethro watches as Moses spends the entire day judging the people’s disputes. Moses is exhausted, and the people are waiting all day for their cases to be heard. Jethro speaks up and says, “What you are doing is not good… You will surely wear yourselves out” (vv. 17–18).

Jethro then suggests a better system: Moses should continue to teach the people God’s laws and handle the most difficult cases, but he should appoint capable, God-fearing men to judge the smaller matters. This was more than just good organizational advice—it was a critical moment in Israel’s development. It established a delegated system of leadership that allowed the nation to function more efficiently and reduced the burden on one person.

Moses Accepts the Counsel (Exodus 18:24–27)

The beauty of this passage is that Moses doesn’t let pride get in the way. He listens to Jethro and implements the plan. This shows humility and wisdom. Even though Moses was God’s chosen leader and prophet, he still recognized that good advice—even from a human source—was worth following when it aligned with God’s purposes.

For us, this is a reminder that we are not called to do everything ourselves. Whether in ministry, family, or work, God often provides help through the wisdom of others. Accepting that help is not a sign of weakness, but of maturity and trust in God’s provision.

Lessons for Us

Exodus 18 gives us two timeless lessons. First, never underestimate the power of sharing what God has done—it can lead others to praise Him. Second, be humble enough to receive wise counsel and not try to carry every burden alone.

Just as Moses witnessed to Jethro and then accepted Jethro’s advice, we too can bless others with our testimony and grow by listening to godly wisdom. In doing so, we strengthen not only our own walk with God but also the community around us.

The Song of Moses: A Song of Victory and Deliverance

 

The Song of Moses: A Song of Victory and Deliverance

Text: Exodus 15:1–21; Revelation 15:2–4

---

Introduction:

Music has always been a powerful way to express the soul’s deepest emotions—joy, sorrow, awe, and gratitude. After one of the greatest deliverances in history, Moses and the Israelites did not remain silent—they sang! Exodus 15 records the first song in Scripture: the Song of Moses. It is a song of triumph, worship, and testimony, and it holds significance far beyond the shores of the Red Sea. In fact, this same song echoes into eternity, as seen in Revelation 15, where the redeemed sing the song of Moses and the Lamb.

---

The Content of Moses’ Song (Exodus 15:1–18):

After the miraculous parting of the Red Sea and the destruction of Pharaoh’s army, Moses and the Israelites broke out in praise. The song exalts God’s power, His faithfulness, and His victory over evil.

• Verse 1 opens with a declaration: "I will sing to the LORD, for He has triumphed gloriously; the horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea."

• The song praises God as a warrior (v.3), a deliverer (v.2), and a God of unmatched power (v.6).

• It recounts the destruction of Egypt’s army, not as a military achievement by Israel, but as a divine act of judgment and mercy.

• It also points forward, declaring that God will plant His people in the land of promise (v.17) and reign forever (v.18).

This was not just a song of celebration—it was a declaration of God’s character and a testimony of His salvation.

---

Miriam and the Women Join In (Exodus 15:19–21):

Following the song of Moses, Miriam the prophetess, Moses' sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing. She sang:
“Sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea.” (v.21)

This moment is significant. It shows that deliverance leads to worship, and worship is communal. It wasn’t just Moses and the leaders; everyone, including the women, joined in praise. Their voices, instruments, and dancing reflected the joy of freedom, the gratitude of salvation, and the unity of God’s people in worship.

---

The Song of Moses and the Lamb (Revelation 15:2–4):

Centuries later, John the Revelator sees a scene in heaven:
"And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb..." (Rev. 15:3)

The connection between Exodus 15 and Revelation 15 is powerful. In both, God delivers His people—in Exodus, from Egypt; in Revelation, from the power of sin, Satan, and this world.

The song in Revelation praises God's justice, righteousness, and holiness:

• “Great and marvelous are your works, Lord God Almighty!”

• “Just and true are Your ways, O King of the saints!”

The deliverance in Revelation is eternal. The sea of glass reflects peace instead of chaos. The redeemed have harps, not weapons. They sing because God has finally and fully conquered evil, and His judgments are righteous and true.

---

What This Means for Us Today:

The song of Moses is more than an ancient hymn—it’s an example for us.

• We, too, are called to praise God in response to deliverance.

• When God brings us through trials, defeats enemies in our lives, or reveals His power in unexpected ways, our response should be worship.

• Like Miriam and the women, we should be unashamed to celebrate what God has done, publicly and joyfully.

• And like those in Revelation, we must remember that God’s final victory is certain. His judgments may seem delayed, but they are just, true, and sure.

---

Conclusion:

The song of Moses reminds us that God is both Savior and Judge, Warrior and Shepherd, and Redeemer and King. As He brought Israel through the sea, He will bring us through every storm. And one day, when all is made new, we too will join in the song—not just of Moses, but of the Lamb, who gave Himself for us and conquered death forever.

So let us sing now in faith what we will sing in eternity:
“Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways, O King of the saints!”

Amen.

The Final Warning: Exodus 11:1–10

 

“The Final Warning—Exodus 11:1–10”

Text: Exodus 11:1–10

God is not impulsive. He is not rash. And He is certainly not unjust. When judgment falls, it is never without warning. In Exodus 11:1–10, we witness the sobering moment before the final and most devastating plague—the death of the firstborn. But even then, we see that God, in His mercy, gives a final warning. He speaks clearly through Moses, offering Pharaoh and Egypt one more opportunity to repent.

God Warns Before He Judges (vv. 1–2; cf. Amos 3:7)
In verse 1, the Lord tells Moses, “Yet one plague more I will bring upon Pharaoh and upon Egypt. Afterward he will let you go from here.” God reveals His plan in advance—He always does. This is consistent with Amos 3:7, which says, “Surely the Lord God does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets.”

Before the flood, Noah preached. Before Sodom was destroyed, Lot was warned. Before the fall of Jerusalem, the prophets cried out. And here, before the death of Egypt’s firstborn, God speaks again—this time through Moses.

This shows us God's heart: even in judgment, He desires repentance. His warnings are not idle threats; they are gracious invitations to turn back before it’s too late.

Moses Leaves Pharaoh in Hot Anger (v. 8)
Moses, God's chosen deliverer, delivers the message: “About midnight I will go out in the midst of Egypt, and every firstborn in the land shall die…” (v. 4–5). The consequence is made crystal clear.

But Pharaoh’s heart remains hard. And we are told in verse 8, “So Moses went out from Pharaoh in hot anger.” Why the anger? It was not prideful wrath. It was righteous frustration. Moses had seen God’s power again and again. He had watched Egypt suffer and Pharaoh resist—plague after plague, nine in total—yet Pharaoh would not listen.

Moses is angry because he knows what’s coming, and Pharaoh’s arrogance guarantees it.

Light for the Israelites, Darkness for Egypt
While Egypt groans under God's judgments, the Israelites live in a different reality. In earlier plagues, we are told that the plagues did not touch the land of Goshen (Exodus 8:22, 9:26). Even in the plague of darkness, the Israelites had light in their dwellings (Exodus 10:23).

This physical distinction is a spiritual one too. God's people are covered by His grace and protection. His wrath is not arbitrary—it’s targeted against rebellion and pride, not those under His covenant.

This is a foreshadowing of Christ, who is our Passover Lamb. Just as God protected His people then, so He does now through the blood of Jesus.

The Significance of the Number Ten
This plague is the tenth—and final—plague. In the Bible, the number ten often symbolizes completion, fullness, and God’s established order. Consider:

• Ten commandments establish God’s moral law.

• A tithe is a complete portion—10% given to God.

• The ten plagues represent the complete judgment of God upon Egypt’s false gods and stubborn king.

The judgment of Egypt had come to full term. God’s patience had not failed; it had fulfilled its purpose. Now the time for final reckoning had come.

God Makes a Distinction (vv. 7–10)
God declares that “not a dog shall growl against any of the people of Israel, either man or beast, that you may know that the Lord makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel” (v. 7).

God is just and sovereign. He does not treat all the same, because not all have responded the same. Pharaoh has repeatedly hardened his heart; Israel has cried out for deliverance. This final plague would be both a judgment on Egypt and a liberation for God's people.

God will always vindicate His name. His glory will be known—either in mercy or in justice. Egypt resisted until justice fell. But for Israel, deliverance was at the door.

Don’t Ignore the Final Warning
This passage reminds us that God warns before He judges, and that persistent hardness of heart leads to disaster. Pharaoh's story is a cautionary tale for every generation.

Hebrews 3:15 says, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” God’s warnings—through His Word, His Spirit, and His messengers—are still being spoken today. Judgment is coming, but so is salvation for those who believe.

Let us be found like Israel, trusting God’s promise and preparing to walk in freedom—not like Pharaoh, proud and defiant until it was too late.

Key Scripture References:

• Exodus 11:1–10

• Amos 3:7

• Exodus 8:22; 9:26; 10:23

• Hebrews 3:15

• 1 Corinthians 5:7 (Christ our Passover)

Call to Action:
Have you responded to God’s voice, or are you resisting like Pharaoh? The time to listen is now. The time to act is now. The warnings are not for fear—they are for mercy. Don’t let the final plague fall before you bow. Let today be the day you come under the covering of the Lamb.

More: EXODUS Sabbath School Lesson 5 - Passover

The Lips of Moses: When Hope Fades: God Still Speaks

 “When Hope Fades: God Still Speaks”

Text: Exodus 6:9–13

Have you ever had a moment where you felt like all your trust in God amounted to nothing? A time when you thought you were following God’s plan, only to see things go from bad to worse?

That’s where we find Moses and the Israelites in Exodus 6:9–13. Moses has obeyed God's call to confront Pharaoh, yet instead of deliverance, the suffering of the people increases. And now, God gives Moses another charge—to go again and speak to Pharaoh. But Moses is discouraged, and he uses a strange phrase to express it: “Behold, I am of uncircumcised lips.”

What does this moment teach us about disappointment, about struggle, and about continuing to follow God when it feels like everything has failed?

Disappointment Can Mute Our Faith (v. 9)

“Moses reported this to the Israelites, but they did not listen to him because of their discouragement and harsh labor.” (Exod. 6:9, NIV)

God had just made incredible promises—freedom, redemption, and a new relationship with Him. But the people didn’t listen. Why? Because they were crushed by discouragement and harsh labor.

Lesson:
Even when God's Word is true and powerful, the pain of life can make it hard for us to hear. Disappointment can close our ears to hope. We must recognize that spiritual numbness doesn’t mean God has failed—it means we’re human.

Obedience Doesn’t Always Bring Immediate Success (v. 10–11)

“Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Go, tell Pharaoh king of Egypt to let the Israelites go out of his country.’”

This is the second time God tells Moses to confront Pharaoh. The first time had ended in disaster. The natural human instinct would be to back away from trying again. But God calls Moses to continue.

Lesson:
Obedience is not measured by outcomes but by faithfulness. The first attempt didn’t bring success—but God hadn’t changed His plan. Sometimes we must press forward even when nothing seems to work.

“Uncircumcised Lips” — A Picture of Inadequacy (v. 12)

“But Moses said to the Lord, ‘Since I speak with uncircumcised lips, why would Pharaoh listen to me?’”

This phrase “uncircumcised lips” appears only here in the Old Testament. It’s a metaphor for being unclean, unworthy, or inadequate. Circumcision represented covenant membership—Moses feels like his mouth isn’t worthy of representing God.

Lesson:
Moses is not just complaining about speech difficulties; he’s expressing deep insecurity. He feels spiritually disqualified. But God doesn’t respond by fixing Moses—He responds by reaffirming the mission.

Encouragement:
God does not depend on your perfection to fulfill His promises. If you feel unworthy or ill-equipped, you are in good company with Moses, Isaiah (“unclean lips”), and Jeremiah (“I am only a youth”).

God’s Patience and Sovereignty (v. 13)

“Now the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron and gave them a command about the Israelites and Pharaoh king of Egypt: He commanded them to bring the Israelites out of Egypt.” (CSB)

God doesn’t rebuke Moses. He simply recommissions him. In God’s plan, there is space for human weakness and divine persistence. God keeps the mission moving forward—even when His messengers falter.

Lesson:
When we are discouraged, God remains determined. When we struggle to trust, God still speaks. Our struggles do not derail His purpose—they become the very platform for His power.

How About Us?

Exodus 6:9–13 is a snapshot of divine calling in the middle of human discouragement. The Israelites couldn’t hear because of pain. Moses couldn’t speak because of fear. But God still speaks. And He still calls.

When life leaves us tired and discouraged—when our words feel weak and our faith feels small—God is not finished.

Let’s remember:

• God's promises are true, even when our pain drowns them out.

• Obedience isn’t about immediate success; it’s about continued trust.

• Feeling unworthy doesn’t disqualify us—because it’s God who qualifies.

• When we can’t hear or speak, God still commands deliverance.

Let Him strengthen you today—not because you’re ready, but because He is faithful.

Prayer:

Lord, in moments of disappointment, speak again. When we feel like we have uncircumcised lips, remind us that You choose the weak to show Your strength. Help us to listen, to obey, and to trust—even when nothing makes sense. Amen.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 3 - Rough Start

Rough Start for Moses: When Obedience Makes Things Worse Before They Get Better

 

When Obedience Makes Things Worse Before They Get Better

Text: Exodus 5:3–23
Key Verse: “May the Lord look on you and judge you! You have made us obnoxious to Pharaoh and his officials and have put a sword in their hand to kill us.” – Exodus 5:21 (NIV)

Have you ever obeyed God—and immediately regretted it?

Not because it was the wrong thing to do, but because the consequences felt worse than before you obeyed?

In Exodus 5:3–23, Moses and Aaron finally stand before Pharaoh with a divine message: “Let my people go.” But what follows is not a triumphant breakthrough—it’s backlash. Pharaoh not only refuses but intensifies Israel’s suffering. And the people? They turn their anger on Moses and Aaron.

It’s one of those moments when doing the right thing seems to make life worse. But in that painful tension, God is at work.

The Immediate Outcome of Obedience (vv. 3–19)

Moses and Aaron obey God’s command. They speak directly to Pharaoh:

“The God of the Hebrews has met with us. Let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to the LORD our God…” (v.3)

But Pharaoh’s reaction is harsh and proud:

• He dismisses their God (v.2).

• He accuses them of distracting the Israelites from their work (v.4–5).

• He punishes the people by increasing their labor—no more straw for bricks, but the same daily quota (v.6–9).

Obedience triggered resistance.

And not just resistance from Pharaoh—but pain for the people of God. That’s a hard pill to swallow. We often expect obedience to result in blessing, clarity, and ease. But the pattern of Scripture—and real life—often shows that obedience first leads us into hardship, not out of it.

The People’s Reaction to Moses and Aaron (v. 21)

The foremen of Israel, beaten and blamed for falling short, meet Moses and Aaron and say:

“May the Lord look on you and judge you! You have made us obnoxious to Pharaoh and his officials and have put a sword in their hand to kill us.” (v.21)

In modern words: “Thanks a lot. You’ve made our lives even worse. You’ve given Pharaoh a reason to destroy us.”

Now imagine yourself in their place:

• You were already suffering.

• Someone promises deliverance.

• And the result? More pain.

Wouldn’t you be angry too? Wouldn’t you feel betrayed, confused, even resentful?

It’s easy to judge their words, but honesty compels us to admit we might have said the same.

Moses’ Desperation and Honest Prayer (vv. 22–23)

Moses turns to God—not in praise, but in protest:

“Why, Lord, why have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me?... You have not rescued your people at all.” (vv.22–23)

This is the raw, painful heart of a man who obeyed—and saw everything get worse.

Yet here’s the lesson: God does not rebuke Moses. He listens. And in the next chapter, He reaffirms His covenant, His power, and His plan (Exodus 6:1–8).

God can handle our honest prayers. He invites us to bring confusion, pain, and protest to Him.

Lessons for Today

1. Obedience may lead to opposition.
   Don’t assume that doing God’s will means a smooth path. In fact, opposition can be a sign that you’re right where God wants you.

2. God sees beyond the immediate.
   Pharaoh’s cruelty didn’t catch God off guard. In fact, God told Moses in Exodus 3:19–20 that Pharaoh would resist. The pain was part of the process.

3. People may blame you for doing the right thing.
   Moses and Aaron weren’t wrong—but they were targets of anger. Sometimes, the cost of leadership is being misunderstood. Be faithful anyway.

4. God honors honest prayer.
   When the road gets rough, take your pain to God. Don’t pretend. He welcomes honesty and responds with reassurance.

The encounter in Exodus 5 reminds us that following God doesn’t always yield instant results. Sometimes obedience brings struggle, and the people we hope to help may turn against us. But this isn’t the end of the story.

God is not silent. He is setting the stage for deliverance. The oppression gets worse—but that’s because freedom is drawing near.

So if you're in a place where obedience seems to have made things harder, take heart: God is still writing the story. What looks like a step back is often a setup for a mighty act of deliverance.

Keep trusting. Keep obeying. And keep praying.
Because God sees. And He will act—with a mighty hand.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 3 - Rough Start

When Excuses Sound Reasonable: Trusting God’s Call

 

"When Excuses Sound Reasonable: Trusting God’s Call"

Text: Exodus 3:11–4:17

Have you ever felt unqualified for something important—something bigger than you? Maybe you were asked to lead, to speak up, to take on a role you didn’t feel ready for. Most of us have. And in those moments, we often offer what seem like perfectly reasonable excuses.

Moses did the same. In fact, his objections to God’s call are so familiar, so human, that we might be tempted to sympathize with him completely.

But the story of Moses shows us something powerful: God is not interested in how qualified we feel. He’s interested in what He can do through us—if we trust Him.

Reasonable Excuses, Divine Response

Let’s look at Moses' objections in Exodus 3–4:

1. “Who am I?” (Ex. 3:11)
   Moses begins with a deep sense of inadequacy. He’s a shepherd, not a diplomat. He tried to help his people once and failed.

   God’s reply? “I will be with you.”
   God doesn’t boost Moses’ ego; He shifts the focus. The success of the mission won’t depend on who Moses is, but on who God is.

2. “What if they don’t believe me?” (Ex. 4:1)
   A fair question—after all, Moses had no official credentials.

   God responds by giving him signs—a staff turned to a snake, a leprous hand healed, water turned to blood.
   In other words, God equips him with more than words: He provides evidence of divine backing.

3. “I am slow of speech and tongue.” (Ex. 4:10)
   Moses is convinced he’s the wrong man for a speaking job.

   God replies, “Who gave human beings their mouths?” and promises, “I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”

4. “Please send someone else.” (Ex. 4:13)
   At the core of all his excuses is fear and reluctance.

   God becomes angry—but even then, He accommodates Moses by sending Aaron to speak for him.

Each time Moses gives an excuse, God doesn’t say the concern is totally false—but He reminds Moses that the call isn’t based on human ability. It’s based on divine power and presence.

Lessons for Us Today

1. God Calls Imperfect People.
   The Bible is full of them—Abraham the doubter, David the sinner, Jeremiah the weeping prophet, Peter the denier, Paul the persecutor. Why? Because God delights in showing His strength through human weakness.

2. Excuses Often Reveal Fear, Not Fact.
   Moses’ excuses sounded logical, but underneath was fear. That same fear grips us—fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of not being enough. But faith begins where fear ends—with trusting God more than our own perceptions.

3. God Provides What We Need—When We Obey.
   God didn’t give Moses everything up front. As Moses stepped forward in obedience, God supplied what he needed. It’s the same with us. Provision often follows obedience.

4. God’s Presence is Enough.
   The answer to every excuse was the same: “I will be with you.” That’s the same promise Jesus gave to His disciples in Matthew 28:20—“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Trusting the God Who Calls

If we only followed God’s call when we felt fully ready, few of us would ever take the first step. But the call of God doesn’t depend on our confidence; it depends on His presence and power.

So, what is God asking of you today?
Is He calling you to step out in ministry, to serve, to lead, to speak, to forgive, to change direction?

You might have a list of reasons why you can’t. Moses did too.
But in God’s hands, even the most ordinary person can do extraordinary things.

Let’s lay down our excuses and pick up trust.
Let’s believe that the One who calls us is faithful—and He will do it.

“Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:24

Prayer:

Lord, You know our hearts. You know our fears, our doubts, and the excuses we carry. Help us lay them down at Your feet. Teach us to trust not in our ability but in Your power. Use us, Lord, not because we are able, but because You are. In Jesus’ name, amen.

More: EXODUS - Sabbath School Lesson 2 - The Burning Bush

I do not Know the LORD

 

“That I May Know Him”

Text: Exodus 5:1–2
“Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: “Let my people go, so that they may hold a festival to me in the wilderness.” Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go.”’”

What would you say to someone who says, “I do not know the Lord”? Not in rebellion, not in mockery, but simply in honesty?
That question was asked long ago by Pharaoh—though his version was full of pride and resistance. But what about today, when someone says it out of confusion, curiosity, or even sadness? “I don’t know the Lord.”

Today, I want us to walk through how God responded to that statement in Exodus and how we can lovingly respond to those who say it today.

Pharaoh’s Words: “I Do Not Know the Lord”

Pharaoh’s statement in Exodus 5:2 was blunt: “I do not know the Lord, and I will not let Israel go.”
It was not a question, but a challenge. He saw himself as a god-king. The God of the Hebrews meant nothing to him.

But here’s the key truth: God took that statement seriously—and personally.

Through the plagues and the mighty acts of deliverance, God essentially said, “You will know who I am.” Over and over, God said, “So that you may know that I am the Lord.”

Pharaoh came to know about God through judgment. But it doesn’t have to be that way for others.

What if Someone Today Says, “I Don’t Know the Lord”?

What if a friend, a coworker, a family member says the same words—not with Pharaoh’s arrogance, but with sincere honesty?

It’s more common than you think.

They may not have grown up in church.
They may have heard of God but never met Him.
They may feel unworthy, or unsure where to begin.

Here’s where we come in—not to scold or preach at them, but to gently introduce them to the God we know.

Helping Others Know the Lord

Moses had a mission: to speak on behalf of God, even when it was difficult. We are called to the same.

Here’s how we help others know the Lord:

• Tell Your Story – Share what God has done in your life. People may not understand theology, but they can’t deny your testimony.

• Point Them to Jesus – Jesus said, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). To know the Lord is to know Jesus.

• Be Patient – God was patient with Moses when he had questions, and He was persistent with Pharaoh even in his rebellion.

• Live What You Speak – Let them see the Lord through your actions, peace, kindness, and integrity.

• Pray for Them – Only the Holy Spirit can open someone’s heart. Never underestimate what your quiet prayers can do.

Why It’s So Important to Know the Lord

Why should someone want to know the Lord?

Because to know the Lord is:

• To walk in truth, not confusion

• To live with hope, not despair

• To find grace instead of guilt

• To experience love that never fails

Jesus said in John 17:3, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

Eternal life is not just about heaven—it's about relationship. It starts now. Knowing the Lord is not about religion, it’s about life—real life.

If someone tells you, “I don’t know the Lord,” don’t panic. That’s a starting place. It’s honest. And it’s where we all once were.

Pharaoh resisted God and was brought low. But others—like the woman at the well, the thief on the cross, or Saul on the Damascus road—came to know the Lord through grace.

Let us be like Moses: willing to speak, even when it’s uncomfortable. Willing to go where God sends us. Willing to be part of God’s plan to help someone say one day, “Now I know the Lord.”

If you’re here today and those words—“I don’t know the Lord”—feel true of you, I invite you to take a step. Ask. Seek. Knock.
God wants to be known. He has revealed Himself in Jesus. And He’s not far from any one of us.

As the Scripture says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8).

Moses, Zipporah, Circumcision: The Lord Who Will Not Be Ignored

 "The Lord Who Will Not Be Ignored"

Text: Exodus 4:18–31

The Strange Passage

Let’s be honest—Exodus 4:18–31 is one of the strangest, most jarring passages in the Old Testament. One moment, Moses is on his way to obey God’s call, and the next, God seeks to kill him. Then Zipporah, Moses' wife, steps in and circumcises their son, touching Moses with the foreskin and saying, “Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me.” What’s going on here?

We might be tempted to skip past passages like this—but we must remember that every word of Scripture is inspired and profitable (2 Tim. 3:16). So today, we will walk through this story, consider its background, and find its message for us today.

The Journey Begins (vv. 18–20): Obedience with Loose Ends

Moses finally agrees to obey God’s call. He asks Jethro for permission to return to Egypt, loads his family on a donkey, and heads out. Outwardly, everything seems in order.

But there’s a major unresolved issue: Moses has not circumcised his son.

According to Genesis 17:10–14, circumcision was the covenant sign for Abraham’s descendants. God said any male who was not circumcised would be cut off from his people. For Moses to approach the God of the covenant while neglecting the covenant sign was serious disobedience—especially as the one God had chosen to lead the covenant people.

Historical Note:
Some scholars suggest that Moses may have compromised with Zipporah, a Midianite, on this issue. Midianites practiced circumcision, but not necessarily in the same way or at the same time as the Hebrews. There may have been tension in their marriage over this. Perhaps Moses avoided the conflict—but in doing so, he also avoided obedience.

The Lord’s Confrontation (v. 24): God Seeks to Kill Moses

This is shocking. God, who had just sent Moses to Egypt, now comes to kill him? The Hebrew here is ambiguous—it could mean "God sought to put him to death," and the subject (Moses or the son) is not fully clear. But the context points to Moses being in danger.

Why? Because God is holy, and His servants must not treat His covenant lightly. Moses cannot represent God before Pharaoh while openly ignoring God’s covenant requirements in his own family.

Lesson:
Partial obedience is not obedience. God is patient, but He is also just. He is not to be trifled with, even by His chosen leaders.

Zipporah’s Bold Action (vv. 25–26): A Wife Steps In

Zipporah sees the seriousness of the moment. She circumcises their son and touches Moses (or perhaps the child) with the foreskin, saying, “You are a bridegroom of blood to me.” This act seems to satisfy God's requirement, and the danger passes.

What does this tell us?

• Zipporah may not have liked the Hebrew custom, but she knew what had to be done.

• Her action saves Moses’ life and allows him to fulfill God’s mission.

• Her words, though perhaps spoken in frustration or grief, recognize the blood covenant that defines Israel's relationship with God.

Historical Insight:
In the ancient Near East, covenant signs were not optional customs—they were binding and serious. By circumcising the child, Zipporah ensured her family was under God’s covenant protection.

God Provides Help (vv. 27–31): Aaron and Obedient Faith

The rest of the passage quickly shifts tone. God sends Aaron to meet Moses. The brothers reunite, and together they present God’s message and signs to the elders of Israel. The people believe and worship—at least for now.

This shows us something powerful: Once the issue of obedience is resolved, God moves forward. He provides help. He affirms His plan. He begins the redemption of His people.

What Can We Learn?

1. God Takes Obedience Seriously
   God does not ignore private disobedience, especially from those called to lead. What Moses left undone nearly cost him everything. We must not delay in obeying God in both public and private matters.

2. Our Families Matter in Ministry
   Moses’ household was part of his calling. Ministry doesn’t exempt us from living in obedience at home—it begins there. How we lead our families matters to God.

3. God’s Mercy Is Amazing
   Though the Lord sought to confront Moses, He also allowed for repentance and provided a way forward. God doesn’t cast us aside when we fail. He disciplines those He loves—and then restores.

4. Obedience Clears the Way for Mission
   Once the issue is resolved, the story accelerates toward God’s purpose: the deliverance of His people. When we deal with what’s holding us back, we can move freely in God’s mission.

"Bridegroom of Blood"

This passage reminds us that God’s covenant is sealed in blood. For Moses, it was the blood of circumcision. For us, it’s the blood of Jesus. We do not stand before God on our merit, but by the covenant of grace established through Christ.

But that grace is not a license for disobedience. It is a call to live fully surrendered lives, in our homes, our ministries, and our hearts.

Let us respond with reverence, repentance, and readiness—so that, like Moses, we may be used powerfully in God’s plan.

Prayer:

"Lord, You are holy and faithful. Teach us to honor Your covenant in every area of our lives. Help us not to delay obedience, and give us courage to lead with integrity—starting in our own homes. Thank You for the blood of Christ, which covers our sins and calls us into Your mission. In His name we pray, Amen."

More: EXODUS - Sabbath School Lesson 2 - The Burning Bush

The Excuses of Moses: When God Calls, He Equips

 

"When God Calls, He Equips"

Text: Exodus 4:1–17

Have you ever felt inadequate for a task you knew was important—maybe something you believed God was asking you to do? Maybe you’ve had a sense of calling but felt overwhelmed by your weaknesses. If so, you are in good company. Moses, one of the most revered leaders in the Bible, experienced this same inner struggle in Exodus 4:1–17. Here, we see a conversation between God and Moses that reveals both human hesitation and divine patience.

The Excuses of Moses (Exodus 4:1, 10, 13)

God had already called Moses in Exodus 3, but here in chapter 4, Moses begins to push back. He gives three excuses:

1. "They won’t believe me" (v.1) – Moses feared rejection, doubting that the Israelites would believe that God had sent him.

2. "I’m not eloquent" (v.10) – Moses focused on his perceived weakness—his lack of speaking ability, whether due to a speech impediment or insecurity.

3. "Please send someone else" (v.13) – Ultimately, Moses just didn’t want to go. He doubted himself—and, indirectly, doubted God.

These excuses are not unfamiliar to us. We, too, fear rejection, feel underqualified, or just want someone else to do what God is asking of us.

The Signs God Gave (Exodus 4:2–9)

To assure Moses, God gives three miraculous signs:

1. The staff turns into a snake and back (vv.2–4) – Symbolizing God's power over nature and fear, and Moses' authority.

2. His hand becomes leprous and is healed (vv.6–7) – A sign of God's power to afflict and restore; a reminder that God controls even our bodies.

3. Water from the Nile turns to blood (v.9) – A powerful warning and sign of judgment, especially against Egypt's gods.

Each sign was not just for show but carried spiritual weight. These miracles were designed to affirm that the God of their ancestors was truly at work through Moses.

God’s Response to Moses' Insecurity (vv.11–12)

When Moses says he’s not a good speaker, God answers with a powerful question:

“Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? ... Is it not I, the Lord?” (v.11)

In other words, “I know your limitations better than you do—and I’m still calling you.”

God promises, “I will help you speak and will teach you what to say” (v.12). What grace! But even then, Moses resists, and finally God becomes angry—not because Moses was weak, but because Moses was unwilling to trust.

Still, God doesn’t abandon him. Instead, He offers Aaron, Moses’ brother, to go with him and be his spokesman. God adapts to Moses’ weakness but doesn’t remove the call.

Lessons for Us

1. God knows our weaknesses—but still calls us.
   He doesn’t wait for perfect people. He uses the willing, not just the qualified.

2. God equips those He calls.
   He provides signs, help, words, and people—whatever is needed to carry out His will.

3. Excuses rob us of experiencing God’s power.
   Fear is natural, but faith must respond. God is patient, but He expects obedience.

4. God’s call is about His power, not our ability.
   When we focus on our inadequacies, we forget the One who empowers us. God didn’t need Moses to be perfect—He needed him to trust.

Maybe you, like Moses, are wrestling with God’s call in your life. Maybe you feel too weak, too afraid, too imperfect. But God still says, “Go.” And He promises, “I will be with you.”

Don’t let fear stop you from following God’s purpose. Trust Him. Step forward in faith. Because when God calls, He doesn’t just send you—He goes with you. Amen!

More: EXODUS - Sabbath School Lesson 2 - The Burning Bush

I AM WHO I AM: The Name That Changes Everything

 

“I AM WHO I AM: The Name That Changes Everything”

Text: Exodus 3:13–22

Have you ever had someone ask, “Who sent you?”

It’s a question about authority, identity, and purpose. In Exodus 3, Moses stands at a turning point. God has just called him to the impossible: confront Pharaoh and deliver a nation of slaves. But Moses, uncertain and afraid, asks something incredibly profound:

“If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is His name?’ what shall I say to them?” (Exodus 3:13)

This isn’t just a request for information. It’s a desperate need for assurance. Who are You, God?
And what God gives in response is nothing short of life-changing.

Moses Asks: Who Are You?

Moses wasn’t doubting that a god had spoken to him. He wanted to know which God—and what kind of God—was sending him into danger.

Names in the ancient world weren’t just labels. They revealed something about the person’s character, authority, and power. For Moses to stand before Israel and Pharaoh with confidence, he needed more than a vague title—he needed the Name.

Moses is asking:
“Can I trust You? Will You keep Your promises? Are You real, present, and powerful?”

God Answers: “I AM WHO I AM”

“God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.’ … Say this to the people of Israel: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” (Ex. 3:14)

This name is rich and mysterious. It comes from the Hebrew root “hayah”, meaning “to be.” From this root comes Yahweh, the personal covenant name of God.

By calling Himself “I AM,” God is saying:

• I exist—not because anyone made Me or sustains Me, but because I am.

• I am unchanging—always present, always faithful.

• I am personal—not a distant force, but the living God who sees, hears, and acts.

• I am self-sufficient—not dependent on time, space, or human effort.

This name reveals God’s eternal nature. He isn’t just the God of the past—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—but the living God of today, fully present in Moses’ crisis and Israel’s suffering.

Yahweh: God of the Covenant

“Say to the people of Israel, ‘The Lord [Yahweh], the God of your fathers… has sent me to you.’” (Ex. 3:15)

“Yahweh” is more than a title—it’s a covenant name. It reminds Israel that this is their God—the One who made promises to Abraham and intends to keep them.

God is not a vague spiritual power. He is a relational God, bound to His people by sacred promise.

When God says “I AM,” He means:

• I am the same God who promised to make you a great nation.

• I am the One who will be with you in Egypt, in the wilderness, and beyond.

• I am not just “out there.” I am here. I am with you.

This covenant relationship is not based on Israel’s merit but on God’s unchanging character.

The Name Means God Is Present

Notice God doesn’t say, “I was” or “I will be.” He says, “I AM.”
Whatever season you’re in—fear, failure, waiting—God’s name reminds us: He is present.

“I will be with you.” (Ex. 3:12)

That’s the real power behind the mission—not Moses’ words or staff—but the presence of Yahweh.

God’s Name, Our Confidence

God’s name isn’t just theology—it’s practical truth for the journey.

• When you feel weak, remember: “I AM” is your strength.

• When you are afraid, “I AM” is your shield.

• When you doubt, “I AM” is your assurance.

• When others question your calling, “I AM” is your authority.

God didn’t send Moses alone. He sent Moses with His name, which meant He sent Moses with Himself.

The Name Fulfilled in Jesus

Centuries later, Jesus echoed these words:

“Before Abraham was, I AM.” (John 8:58)

Jesus wasn’t just quoting the Old Testament—He was identifying Himself as Yahweh in the flesh.
Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the covenant, the final assurance that God is with us—Emmanuel.

In Christ, we see the “I AM” walking among us, healing, forgiving, dying, and rising again.

When Moses asked, “What is Your name?”

God gave an answer that still echoes today: “I AM WHO I AM.”

It’s not just a name—it’s a promise:

• I am present.

• I am faithful.

• I am with you.

So when God calls you—when life overwhelms you, when others ask who you think you are—remember, it’s not about who you are.
It’s about who He is.

And He is I AM.

Short prayer: Lord, You are the great I AM—unchanging, eternal, and faithful. Help us to trust in Your name, to walk in Your promises, and to remember that You are always present. May we, like Moses, go forward not in our own strength, but in the power of the One who says, “I AM with you.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More: EXODUS - Sabbath School Lesson 2 - The Burning Bush