Hannah’s Song ∙

Hannah’s Song ∙

For all the earth is the LORD’s, and he has set the world in order. – 1 Samuel 2:8

1 Samuel 2:1-10

 1 Then Hannah prayed: My heart rejoices in the LORD! The LORD has made me strong. Now I have an answer for my enemies; I rejoice because you rescued me.

 2 No one is holy like the LORD! There is no one besides you; there is no Rock

 6 The LORD gives both death and life; he brings some down to the grave but raises others up.

 7 The LORD makes some poor and others rich; he brings some down and lifts others up.

 10 Those who fight against the LORD will be shattered. He thunders against them from heaven; the LORD judges throughout the earth. He gives power to his king; he increases the strength of his anointed one.

Dogs are renowned for their loyalty and companionship, expressing gratitude and affection in unique ways despite their inability to speak. They communicate emotions through body language, such as a wagging tail, joyful panting, relaxed postures, snuggling, and licking their owner’s face.

Beyond these physical signs, dogs demonstrate thankfulness through actions like bringing a toy to their owner or shadowing them from room to room, showcasing their love and appreciation. Each dog has its distinct methods of expressing affection and gratitude, which they do with enthusiasm.

Thankfulness is a joyful and uplifting emotion. In a similar vein, the Father has provided humans with a way to express gratitude through prayer.

In 1 Samuel 2:1-10, known as the “Song of Hannah,” Hannah, the mother of Samuel, sings a song of thanksgiving and praise. She expresses her gratitude to the Father for answering her prayers by granting her a son, whom she dedicates to His service. Hannah acknowledges the Father’s power and grace, giving thanks for her blessings. Her song is a profound expression of faith and gratitude.

Hannah begins by proclaiming that the Lord is her rock, fortress, and savior, and she fears nothing with the Lord by her side. In 1 Samuel 2:3-5, she contrasts the Lord’s power and wisdom with the weakness and folly, noting how He brings down the mighty and elevates the humble.

Hannah gets very personal and declares that the Father brings joy to the barren woman, making her a joyful mother. She acknowledges that the Lord judges the earth and empowers those He chooses.

In 1 Samuel 2:9-10, Hannah concludes her song by proclaiming that the Lord protects His faithful ones while bringing judgment upon the wicked. She emphasizes that the Father’s reach is never too short to save, and He is the ultimate judge of the earth.

This passage highlights Hannah’s profound faith in God and her thankfulness for His blessings. She acknowledges that God governs the world and supports those who place their trust in Him, highlighting His unmatched power and might. Her song exemplifies the devotion and trust in God celebrated in the Bible, encouraging others to cultivate similar faith and confidence in Him.

Overall, this passage beautifully expresses faith and gratitude, with Hannah recognizing the Lord’s power and grace and giving thanks for the blessings she has received.

REFLECT & PRAY

A life without thankfulness lacks love and passion. Hope without gratitude misses the subtleties of life. Faith, when not paired with thankfulness, loses its strength and resilience. Every virtue, when separated from gratitude, is hindered and struggles on the spiritual path.

Father, thank You for being sovereign. You are gracious and all-powerful. You intervene in the space-time continuum to achieve Your purpose and will. May Your will be done on earth as it is.

INSIGHT

Hannah’s inability to have children brought deep sorrow, especially in ancient Israel, where a woman’s identity and self-worth were closely tied to bearing children. Her barrenness subjected her to relentless teasing and mockery, making her the target of harsh bullying year after year.

1 Samuel 1:6-7

 6 So Peninnah would taunt Hannah and make fun of her because the LORD had kept her from having children.

 7 Year after year, it was the same – Peninnah would taunt Hannah as they went to the Tabernacle. Each time, Hannah would be reduced to tears and would not even eat.

Throughout history, countless women have endured similar hardships and heartaches as Hannah, who serves as a model for overcoming such adversity. She remained steadfast in her faith, trusting the Father and pouring out her heart in tearful prayers. The Father heard her cries and graciously answered her prayers.

1 Samuel 2:8 The foundations of the earth belong to the LORD, and he has placed the world on them.

In ancient times, many cultures, including Israel, believed pillars supported the earth. This notion reflects the Father’s ultimate control over the world and its inhabitants. He shapes history and provides hope and comfort to those who trust in Him.

The Hebrew term matsuq is translated as “pillars.” Matsuq refers to an upright pillar, a tall, vertical, cylindrical structure. It is used for support. Hence, the earth itself. It is reasonable to translate “The LORD is the owner of the foundations on which the world sits” or, as CEV has translated the last two lines together, “You set the world on foundations, and they belong to you” (UBS).

Psalms 24:1 The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.

“Since he created the world and maintains it, God has the power and the right to intervene in its affairs and rearrange the fortunes of men according to his sovereign will” (James E. Smith). As the designer, creator, and owner of the world, the Father has sovereignty over it. What happens on planet Earth is under His watchful care.

This comforting fact is the centerpiece of Hannah’s faith and confidence. She poured out her heart and humbly requested the Father’s intervention in her life. She was overjoyed and grateful when the Father answered her prayer and blessed her with the birth of Samuel. With a thankful heart, she sang praises to Him, acknowledging His power to rearrange the fortunes of people and His gracious provision in her life.

Hannah demonstrates in-depth knowledge and comprehension of the Father’s character, lovingkindness, and mighty works. She knows what God is like as a person.

That is the foundation of her faith and song.

“We can smile at our enemies when we remember that we serve a God who takes great delight in saving and redeeming us. When we rejoice in the Lord, and not merely in His blessings, we find a joy known nowhere else” (Stanley).

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© Dr. H 2024

The first will be last ∙∙

The first will be last ∙∙

Many who are first will be last. – Matthew 19:30

Matthew 19:23-30

 23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, I tell you the truth, it is very hard for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

 24 I’ll say it again – it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!

 25 The disciples were astounded. Then who in the world can be saved? they asked.

 26 Jesus looked at them intently and said, Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God, everything is possible.

 27 Then Peter said to him, We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?

 28 Jesus replied I assure you that when the world is made new, and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life.

 30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.

We are driven by a strong personal drive to feel good about ourselves and to seek meaning and significance in our lives. As we grow, we often look up to those closest to us and those we admire, adopting their values and aspirations almost like catching a cold.

In worldly terms, we know the rules. What we want, we strive to get. What really matters most? Is it success, possessions, or status? These factors contribute to our sense of satisfaction, but there’s a catch. They can offer a measure of comfort, yet potentially, they block us from achieving what is of lasting importance.

Jesus taught that it is difficult for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 19:23). But why is this so?

When we become self-reliant and achieve worldly success, the question arises: why would we feel the need for God? If our confidence lies in our own identity, achievements, or possessions, why would we need to put our trust in God?

This struggle isn’t unique to the wealthy; it applies equally to the strong, intelligent, influential, or politically connected. They tend to rely on their own resources; pride keeps them from placing their trust in God and His resources (Stanley).

REFLECT & PRAY

In the kingdom of God, the Father has turned things upside down. Losing is winning; winning is losing.

Father, I recognize that I have caught my values and priorities from the world. Encourage and strengthen me to abandon my earthly, soulish values in exchange for Your heavenly values.

INSIGHT

In the kingdom of God, things seem backward. They are turned upside down from what we expected. Jesus stated, “Many who are first will be last, and the last first” (Matthew 19:30).

We gain by losing. Jim Elliot wrote: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain that which he cannot lose.”

Matthew 10:39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it, but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.

Human DNA seems to harbor a natural sense of competitiveness. As individuals, we are driven to seek the best for ourselves and work tirelessly to achieve it. However, this inclination is contrary to the dream that the Father has for us and is more in line with the values and priorities of the world rather than those of the kingdom of God.

The Last Supper was a momentous occasion that took place the evening before the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus Christ. During this pivotal time, the disciples were present, yet they did not fully comprehend the gravity of what was to unfold the following day. Despite having devoted the last 3 1/2 years of their lives to the Lord Jesus Christ, they were not fully aware that He was on the verge of enduring a gruesome, brutal, and horrid death to atone for the sins of the world.

Their attention was fixated entirely on themselves and their own status and importance, rendering them indifferent to the profound significance of that moment for the Lord Jesus Christ. They were so occupied with themselves that they were oblivious to Him. They totally failed to recognize the magnitude of the situation surrounding Him.

Luke 22:24-26

 24 Then they began to argue among themselves about who would be the greatest among them.

 25 Jesus told them, In this world the kings and great men lord it over their people . . .

 26 But among you, it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant.

In a poignant and emotionally charged moment in the gospel story, the disciples became embroiled in a heated discussion about status and privilege, all while in the very shadow of the cross. The seating arrangement at Jewish feasts adhered to a strict protocol, with the table set in a U-shape, leaving one side open. The host occupied the central position at the top, with the most esteemed guest to his right and the second most esteemed to his left, and this alternating pattern continued around the table.

Entangled in their own worldly ambitions, the disciples became ensnared in an argument about their respective positions, holding fast to the vision of a kingdom based on worldly principles. However, the Lord Jesus Christ imparted a stark lesson, drawing a sharp contrast between the values of His kingdom and those of the world. Worldly kings were evaluated based on the power and authority they wielded.

The Greek word for “dispute,” philoneikia, occurring only here in the NT, is a hapax legomenon. It is a compound word literally meaning love of victory or desire for glory. Here, it has the sense of rivalry, contention, or insidiousness in a pejorative sense. It has the general sense of readiness to quarrel, eagerness to dispute, inclination to strife, love of strife, and eagerness to contend. “When you are interested in promoting yourself, it doesn’t take much to start an argument” (Wiersbe).

Lord Jesus Christ interrupts their vanity with a warning. “Jesus told them bluntly that the standards of his kingdom were not the standards of this world” (Barclay). He explains that they were thinking like the unsaved Gentiles and not like children of the King. The Romans, in particular, vied for honors and did all they could, legally and illegally, to win promotion and recognition, but they are not examples for us to follow. “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves benefactors” (Luke 22:25).

True greatness means to be like Jesus, and that means being a servant to others. A servant does not argue over who is the greatest because he knows that he is the least, and he accepts this from the hand of a Father. Since all children of the King are to be servants, there is no reason for us to compete with one another for honors and recognition.

In the Middle Eastern context, rulers were frequently referred to as Euergetes, a title meaning “Benefactor” in Greek. Nevertheless, Jesus profoundly redefined the concept of greatness, asserting that in His kingdom, it is not the king who holds this title but the servant who embodies it in its truest sense (Barclay).

Sadly, fallen humanity chases after recognition and prominence. As we look within, we may recognize, to our chagrin, that we probably have done the same thing.

To become great in God’s kingdom, you must become the servant of all.

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© Dr. H 2024

Our guardian angels ∙∙

Our guardian angels ∙∙

For he will order his angels to protect you in all you do. – Psalms 91:11

Matthew 18:10 Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven, their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father.

Hebrews 1:14 Therefore, angels are only servants, ministering spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.

Guardian Angels, a non-profit organization founded by Carol Borden in 2010 and located in Williston, FL, is on a mission to empower individuals with disabilities, particularly veterans suffering from combat-related injuries. They achieve this by harnessing the therapeutic influence of service dogs, inspiring hope, fostering independence, and enhancing the quality of life for those they serve.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs are dedicated to rescuing, nurturing, and training top-tier service dogs. Applicants in need undergo a meticulous selection process, ensuring that only the best match is made. Once chosen, recipients receive the necessary support and resources to thrive with their service dog.

Each service dog is thoughtfully paired with a recipient to ensure the best possible match, regardless of the type of disability. Guardian Angels has successfully linked over 200 dogs with deserving recipients.

In the intricate tapestry of biblical stories, angels emerge as captivating and essential figures. Although the Bible doesn’t specifically mention “guardian angels,” their existence is seamlessly embedded in its narratives and teachings. Angels are portrayed as both protectors and messengers throughout the scriptures. As protectors, they act as advocates of God’s will, shielding people from harm. As messengers, they deliver God’s directives, exemplified by Gabriel’s announcements to Mary and Zechariah in the Gospel of Luke.

Guardian angels in these stories highlight God’s active role and intervention in the world. They embody His presence and protection, serving as powerful reminders of the Father’s constant proximity. Their appearances affirm the enduring bond between the Father and His people, providing comfort and hope to the children of the King.

Guardian angels bring good news (Judges 13:3, Luke 2:8-15), issue warnings of danger (Genesis 19:15), offer protection from danger (Daniel 3:28; 6:22), provide guidance (Exodus 14:19), nurture (Genesis 21:14-20; 1 Kings 19:4-7), or instruct and impart wisdom (Acts 7:38; Galatians 3:19) (Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible).

The Father appoints these angels to guard individuals (particularly children and children of the King), groups, or nations (Daniel 10:5-21).

Though their actions might be unseen, God tasks His angels with our care, bringing His message, grace, and protection. We may never recognize in this life how often an angel has safeguarded us from harm or guided us to success. They are part of the Father’s perfect provision, and all praise belongs to Him, not the angels (Stanley).

Psalms 91:11 assures us, “For he will order his angels to protect you in all you do.”

The Father appoints angels to protect and watch over His own. They are primarily behind the scenes, akin to Secret Service agents that protect Presidents of the United States. They are all around yet invisible to us most of the time. Occasionally, the Father allows people to see them (Numbers 22:31, 2 Kings 6:17, Luke 2:1). Sometimes, they take bodily form (Matthew 28:5; Hebrews 13:2). But these occurrences are infrequent, the exception rather than the rule.

The heavenly Father uses angels to care for little children.

Matthew 18:10 underscores, “Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven, their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father.”

Each child is appointed a guardian angel at birth. They watch over us right from the start. This notion can be both incredibly reassuring and perhaps simultaneously a bit unsettling.

These heavenly guardians extend their protection to all of us, the needy children of the King. Constantly in the Father’s presence, they act as our personal emissaries, awaiting His directives. Ever prepared, they stand ready to fulfill their heavenly assignments.

Hebrews 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation?

REFLECT & PRAY

Angels vigilantly watch over humanity, serving as the Father’s envoys and protectors.

Father, thank You for the strength and tools You provide to fulfill Your will and accomplish the assignments You have set before us. You alone deserve all praise and glory.

INSIGHT

The Hebrew word, which is translated as “angel,” is malak, which means messenger. The name of the prophet “Malachi” translates to “my messenger.” The Greek equivalent is aggelos, which also signifies messenger, envoy, or emissary. It is the source for the English term “angel.”.

Scripture identifies two angels by name: Gabriel and Michael. Angels are often depicted as a celestial army with ranks. Michael is an archangel, while Gabriel acts as the Father’s emissary, delivering messages. Despite this, the commander-in-chief is the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.

Psalms 24:10 Who is the King of Glory? The LORD of Heaven’s Armies – he is the King of Glory.

I often find myself in trouble, whether it’s small or large. I imagine my guardian angel manages the minor issues, and for greater challenges, I envision more powerful angels stepping in (Daniel 10:13).

Despite my frequent misadventures that likely demand extra vigilance, true security doesn’t rest with these created beings but with the Father. He deploys bigger guns and assigns an angel of a higher rank with more power and authority. Sometimes, I suppose myself to be a real bother, quite a handful, perhaps causing angels to work overtime. I can almost hear one exclaim, “Did you see that? I can’t believe he did that again!”  

Guardian angels vividly demonstrate God’s nurturing presence and care. As both protectors and messengers, they fulfill God’s promise to watch over us. Through grand acts or subtle guidance, these angels inspire trust in God’s unseen yet constant protection.

Ultimately, our wisdom, guidance, power, and security come from the Spirit of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. While guardian angels play significant roles, their importance pales compared to the supreme authority of the Lord Jesus Christ, who reigns at the right hand of Majesty (Hebrews 1:3).

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© Dr. H 2024

Our expiration date ∙∙

Our expiration date ∙∙

John grew up and became strong in spirit. He lived in the wilderness until he began his public ministry to Israel. – Luke 1:80

1 Corinthians 15:54-55

 54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory.”

 55 “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?”

As we grow older, most of our physical abilities and strengths tend to decline. However, there is one notable exception: the human spirit, which has the potential to grow stronger over time. This was true for John the Baptist; he grew ever stronger in his spirit (Luke 1:80).

Satchel Paige wisely asked, “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you was?”

The wiser mind mourns less for what age takes away than what it leaves behind (Wordsworth).

When you are eighty years old, you have learned almost everything. The problem is being able to remember it (George Burns).

Typically, our “long-term memory” remains intact, but as Burns humorously pointed out, the challenge for some older adults is recalling the information they’ve already acquired. For many of us, the real issue might be something as simple as forgetting where we parked the car. An old adage reminds us, “It’s okay to forget your keys; it’s not okay to forget what the keys are for.”

Too often, we let age define us when, instead, we should let our identity shape how we perceive our age. As people age, particularly those who choose not to dwell on loss, their thoughts naturally shift to what truly matters. By focusing on what’s important, they can maximize their mental and spiritual potential.

One of the inevitable sorrows of aging is losing dear friends and family. We also begin to reflect on our own eventual departure to our eternal home. However, the apostle Paul offers guidance on facing these challenges.

While we grieve the loss of loved ones, our sorrow is not permanent. As children of the King, our hope extends beyond this world. Death is not the final chapter; resurrection is. All children of the King have a sure hope of resurrection and eternity with Him. In our later years, the Father may even introduce new friends and loved ones into our lives.

Paul provides a roadmap for dealing with these concerns. Paul did not fear death and eagerly anticipated being with the Father, yet he understood that he still had important work to accomplish.

Philippians 1:21-25

 21 For me, living means living for Christ and dying is even better.

 22 But I can do more fruitful work for Christ if I live. So, I really don’t know which is better.

 23 I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me.

 24 But for your sake, it is better that I continue to live.

 25 Knowing this, I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith.

Being strong in spirit and embracing our purpose, we can face aging with hope and wisdom.

REFLECT & PRAY

Each of us has an expiration date. The Father has a plan and purpose for every child of the King. When our time of service is finished, the Father calls us home. We live to serve at His pleasure.

Father, I am thankful for the beloved friends you’ve taken away and for those new ones you’ve brought into my life. My life and destiny are securely in Your hands.

INSIGHT

During the era of the Judges, around 1200 BC to 1020 BC, a severe famine struck the land of Judah, prompting Elimelech and his wife, Naomi, along with their two sons, to seek refuge in Moab. Sadly, Elimelech passed away, and Naomi’s sons married Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah (fun fact: Oprah Winfrey’s name was meant to be Orpah, but the name on her birth certificate was misspelled). Then, tragedy struck again as Naomi’s sons also died, creating a scenario that could rival any soap opera.

Faced with such heartache, Naomi decided to return to Judah. She advised her daughters-in-law to remain in Moab and remarry. Orpah took her advice, but Ruth, in a display of remarkable loyalty and devotion, chose to stay with Naomi. Ruth’s pledge of loyalty and dedication is delightful and charming and has resonated through the ages. Ruth’s words are among the most memorable in all of Scripture. Few utterances in the Bible match her speech for sheer poetic beauty and extraordinary courage and spirituality (Block).

Ruth 1:16-17

 16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.

 17 Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us!”

Ruth 1:20-21

 20 “Don’t call me Naomi,” she responded. “Instead, call me Mara, for the Almighty, has made life very bitter for me.”

 21 “I went away full, but the LORD has brought me home empty. Why call me Naomi when the LORD has caused me to suffer, and the Almighty has sent such tragedy upon me?”

Naomi was overwhelmed with bitterness and regret, feeling as though life had drained her completely. Ruth 1:20-21 captures her despair:

Yet unbeknownst to Naomi, her story was far from over. It had only begun; great chapters lie ahead for the childless widow. The journey leads her to Bethlehem, a name that hints at what is to come. It is an old-fashioned love story with a twist. Ruth meets Boaz, who falls in love with her. They marry and have a son named Obed. Obed became the father of Jesse, and Jesse became the father of King David.

Naomi finds herself blessed with a new family. Her story shifts from sorrow to joy. The Father orchestrated Ruth’s entrance into Naomi’s life, bringing love and loyalty at just the right time to begin the restoration process. The Father provides Naomi with generous compensation and removes her bitterness. Naomi, once a childless widow, becomes the grandmother of Obed and the great-great-grandmother of King David.

Ultimately, however, godly loyalty tends to pay big dividends. True loyalty is demanding, requiring patience and a willingness to face challenges. Loyal individuals adjust their lives to support those they serve, often at a personal cost. Ruth exemplified this by leaving her own family to be at Naomi’s side.

The Father recognized Ruth’s unwavering loyalty and blessed her with a loving husband, a cherished son, and the honor of being part of the lineage of Jesus Christ (Stanley).

Continue to grow in spirit and serve at His pleasure. Only He knows the end of your days on earth.

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© Dr. H 2024

Paganini and one string! ∙

Paganini and one string! ∙

Then the LORD asked, “What is that in your hand?” “A shepherd’s staff,” Moses replied. – Exodus 4:2

2 Corinthians 3:5 It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything independently. Our adequacy comes from God.

Nicolo Paganini was an exceptionally gifted Italian violinist and composer of the 19th century, known for his remarkable talent. Like Mozart, he was a child prodigy, although not quite his equal. Paganini made his debut at the age of nine and started touring by thirteen, leaving audiences in Italy, France, and England in awe of his performances.

A famous tale recounts an incident during a complex orchestral performance when one of Paganini’s violin strings suddenly snapped. Unfazed, he continued to play, improvising effortlessly. When a second string broke, Paganini still managed to carry on with just two strings. To the audience’s disbelief, a third string gave way, leaving him with only one.

Faced with a violin missing three strings, many would have accepted defeat, but not Paganini. He brilliantly completed the challenging piece on his Stradivarius with just one string. The audience erupted in applause, standing in admiration. When the applause subsided, Paganini astonished everyone further by performing an encore. Holding up his violin, he declared, “Paganini and one string!”

This story invites reflection: Can the children of the King serve with limited, sometimes broken, resources? Many of us navigate life burdened by challenges and setbacks, akin to playing with broken strings. Consider Moses, who encountered a burning bush on Mount Sinai, unaware that he would meet the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God appeared as the angel of the Lord and spoke to Moses. Despite his initial limitations, Moses served the Father to fulfill an assignment that was far beyond his human capabilities.

Exodus 3:1-6

 1 One day Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian. He led the flock far into the wilderness and came to Sinai, the mountain of God.

 2 There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a blazing fire from the middle of a bush. Moses stared in amazement. Though the bush was engulfed in flames, it didn’t burn up.

 3 “This is amazing,” Moses said to himself. “Why isn’t that bush burning up? I must go see it.”

 4 When the LORD saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, “Moses! Moses!” “Here I am!” Moses replied.

 5 “Do not come any closer,” the LORD warned. “Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground.”

 6 “I am the God of your fathers – the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” When Moses heard this, he covered his face because he was afraid to look at God.

To his utter surprise, the Father gave Moses an incredible, seemingly impossible assignment.

Exodus 3:10 “Now go, for I am sending you to Pharaoh. You must lead my people Israel out of Egypt.”

Moses could not believe his ears. He felt totally inadequate for such a responsibility.

Exodus 3:11 But Moses protested to God, “Who am I to appear before Pharaoh? Who am I to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt?”

But the Father had his back. He said to Moses, “I’ve got this.”

Exodus 3:12 God answered, “I will be with you. And this is your sign that I am the one who has sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God at this very mountain.”

Again, Moses protested. But the father was prepared and answered by asking him a question. “What is that in your hand?” (Exodus 4:2).

Moses’ answer was lame. I have a shepherd’s staff; what could I possibly do with a stick? (Exodus 4:3). Moses’ stick was a branch of wood that he had used to lead his sheep.

Undaunted, the Father responded.

Exodus 4:3-4

 3 “Throw it down on the ground,” the LORD told him. So Moses threw down the staff, and it turned into a snake! Moses jumped back.

 4 Then the LORD told him, “Reach out and grab its tail.” So Moses reached out and grabbed it, and it turned back into a shepherd’s staff in his hand.

Regrettably, Moses was not impressed. His focus was inward, fixated on his own limited abilities, and he saw himself as wanting. It never crossed his mind that his sufficiency came not from himself but from God.

Exodus 4:10-13

 10 But Moses pleaded with the LORD, “O Lord, I’m not very good with words. I never have been, and I’m not now, even though you have spoken to me. I get tongue-tied, and my words get tangled.”

 11 Then the LORD asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD?

 12 Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.”

REFLECT & PRAY

Make use of whatever you have at your disposal to serve the Father.

Father, I am grateful that my strength does not come from myself! Thank You for my sufficiency, which comes from You and You alone. I am confident that whatever You call me to do in Your service, You will supply all the necessary resources and capabilities.

INSIGHT

Reflecting on our own meager abilities and paltry resources can easily lead to feelings of despair and hopelessness. It is easy to simply shut down. It’s natural to question, “Who am I?” Many have pondered this same question, including Moses (Exodus 3:11), David (1 Samuel 18:18), and Job (Job 9:14).

Yet, the Father’s greatness surpasses our humble circumstances. Take Moses as an example when he first ascended Mount Sinai. What did he possess? Just his clothes, sandals, a shepherd’s staff, and a burning curiosity. That was it, the entirety of his worldly possessions. From a human perspective, his resources seemed insignificant. However, the Father perceived something far greater. He saw beyond Moses’ earthly limitations, recognizing the combination of Moses’ resources with God’s boundless resources. The new formula was simple: Moses’ resources + God’s resources = unlimited resources.

Exodus 4:2 Then the LORD asked him, “What is that in your hand?” “A shepherd’s staff,” Moses replied.

Moses had nothing more than a stick, the branch of a tree. How could he possibly carry out the mission the Father was sending him on? How can he fight the Egyptians armed with swords, spears, and chariots (the most powerful weapons of his day) with a stick?

For the Father, it was not a problem! Somehow, merely saying a few words, the Father infused the stick with the almighty power of God. It was no longer a mere shepherd’s staff. It was now the rod of God (Exodus 4:2-17)!

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© Dr. H 2024