MOSES: THE HOTHEAD

Moses, The Hot Head

The life of Moses is one of hope and inspiration to all who struggle with anger, insecurities, and past mistakes. His story speaks to those who battle anger, insecurity, and feelings of unworthiness, and reminds us that no matter how far one has fallen, with faith in God and genuine repentance, we too can be used by God to accomplish mighty things.

Early Life and Upbringing

Moses was born a Hebrew at a time when the Pharaoh of Egypt had ordered all newborn Hebrew boys to be killed to control the population of the enslaved Israelites. To save him, Moses’ mother placed him in a basket and set it afloat on the Nile River. By divine providence, the basket was found by Pharaoh’s daughter, who took pity on the crying baby and decided to adopt him. Moses grew up in the Egyptian royal palace, raised as a prince with all the privileges of royalty (Exodus 2:1-10).

Despite his privileged upbringing, Moses never forgot his Hebrew roots. He saw the suffering of his people and felt a deep connection to them. This awareness would later fuel his actions and decisions, both good and bad.

The Murder and Its Consequences

One day, while witnessing the harsh treatment of his people, Moses saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew slave. Overcome with anger and a sense of justice, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand (Exodus 2:11-12). This impulsive act of rage forced him to flee Egypt when Pharaoh learned of the murder and sought to kill him. Moses escaped to the land of Midian, trading his life of luxury and power for the humble life of a shepherd (Exodus 2:15-22).

The Call of God and Moses’ Insecurities

 Moses' life took a dramatic turn when he encountered God in the form of a burning bush on Mount Horeb. God called Moses to return to Egypt and lead the Israelites out of slavery. However, Moses was filled with doubt and insecurity. He questioned his ability to carry out such a monumental task, particularly because of his speech impediment.

God reassured Moses, promising to help him speak and even providing his brother Aaron to be his spokesperson. Despite his initial reluctance, Moses accepted the call and returned to Egypt, armed with the promise of divine assistance. It's worth noting that Moses' unique background, speaking both Hebrew and Egyptian, was instrumental in his mission. Our unique backgrounds and life experiences, even the most painful ones, often best prepare us for God's work.

Confronting Pharaoh and Leading the Israelites

 Back in Egypt, Moses confronted Pharaoh, demanding the release of the Israelites. This was no small feat. Moses faced down the most powerful ruler of his time, who repeatedly refused to let the Israelites go. Each time Moses approached Pharaoh, Moses displayed incredible bravery and persistence. After a series of devastating plagues that afflicted Egypt, Pharaoh finally relented, and the Israelites were allowed to leave (Exodus 12:31-32).

The Journey to the Promised Land

Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the Red Sea, which God parted to allow them to escape from the pursuing Egyptian army (Exodus 14:21-22). This miraculous event solidified Moses’ leadership. However, the journey to the Promised Land was fraught with challenges, and Moses’ temper continued to be a recurring issue.

One of the most significant instances of Moses’ anger occurred at Mount Sinai. While Moses was receiving the Ten Commandments from God, the Israelites grew impatient and created a golden calf to worship. Descending from the mountain, Moses saw the idolatry and, in his fury, smashed the stone tablets (Exodus 32:19). This act of righteous anger showed his deep frustration and disappointment with the people he was leading.

Despite his anger, Moses interceded for the Israelites, pleading with God to forgive their sin. God listened to Moses and renewed His covenant with the Israelites, providing a new set of stone tablets (Exodus 34:1-4).

The Rock at Meribah

 As the Israelites continued their journey through the desert, their grumbling and complaints often tested Moses’ patience. At Meribah, when the people were desperate for water, God instructed Moses to speak to a rock to bring forth water. However, Moses, frustrated and angry with the Israelites’ constant complaining, struck the rock twice with his staff instead (Numbers 20:8-11). Water flowed from the rock, but God was displeased with Moses' disobedience. Because Moses did not trust God enough to honor Him as holy, God decreed that Moses would not lead the Israelites into the Promised Land (Numbers 20:12).

This incident underscores the consequences of Moses’ anger and lack of faith, but it also shows God’s mercy in still providing water for the people despite Moses' failure.

Moses’ Leadership and Final Days

Throughout the Israelites’ journey, Moses continued to lead with sincerity, boldness, and bravery. He often stood as an intermediary between God and the people, interceding on their behalf and seeking guidance for their well-being. Moses' deep relationship with God was evident in the way he communicated with Him, sometimes even debating and negotiating to ensure the best for the Israelites.

Despite his struggles, Moses remained a faithful servant of God. As they approached the Promised Land, God allowed Moses to see it from a distance, though he would not enter it (Deuteronomy 34:1-4). Moses died in the land of Moab, and God Himself buried him (Deuteronomy 34:5-8).

His life demonstrates that no matter how far we’ve fallen, God loves you anyway. Despite your past, He has a purpose for your future and if you repent and have faith, God can use you to accomplish mighty things.

" You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea." Micah 7:9

Moses’ life ended not with his failures but with a legacy of faith, leadership, and redemption. He is remembered as one of the greatest prophets and leaders in the Bible, a man who overcame his flaws through the grace of God.

Application Questions:

1. How do you handle your emotions when faced with frustration or anger?
   

2. Remember Moses' initial reluctance and stutter. In what areas of your life can you trust God to use you despite your perceived weaknesses?
   

3. What steps can you take to seek God's forgiveness and redemption for past mistakes?