READ EXODUS 6
Today, Moses brings some positive news to the Israelites, sharing God's message with them about remembering His covenant, freeing and redeeming them, and guiding them to the Promised Land. The Israelites, finally rescued and remembered by God, should have rejoiced at this news.
However, the Israelites did not pay attention to Moses due to their discouragement and heavy workload. They found it difficult to believe the good news, especially coming from someone who had recently increased their workload. Focused on their immediate problems, they overlooked God's provision for them, despite knowing of His promises and capabilities from past stories. Similarly, in our lives, we can become so disheartened by life's challenges that we miss seeing God's bigger plan at work.
Our limited perspective often hinders us from recognizing God's hand in our lives, as we are consumed by earthly concerns such as problems, fears, and anxieties. This perspective is understandable given the chaotic state of the world, with diseases, brokenness, failures, and hurts surrounding us.
Nonetheless, as believers, we are called to be hopeful and optimistic, knowing that our current struggles are not the final chapter. We can choose to shift our focus from our earthly troubles to a heavenly perspective, fixing our gaze on Christ rather than our problems. Just as Paul advises in Colossians 3:1-2, we are encouraged to set our hearts and minds on things above where Christ is seated at God's right hand, rather than on earthly concerns. So, what will you choose to focus on today—your challenges, pains, and worries, or will you lift your eyes to Christ and allow His perspective to guide you through tough times?
QUESTIONS
1. What insights do you gain about God and humanity from this chapter?
2. What challenges are you currently facing in your life? How would your perspective change if you focused on eternity during these difficult times?
3. The chapter not only reveals the Israelites' and Moses' doubts in God, but also shows how Moses' confidence is shaken. Have there been times when you have doubted God? How do you handle your doubts?