How can we ensure our lives align with God's expectations, as seen in Exodus 4:24? Setting the scene: Moses confronted by God “Now at a lodging place along the way, the LORD met Moses and was about to kill him.” (Exodus 4:24) Moses was freshly commissioned to confront Pharaoh, yet the Lord stopped him cold because he had left an essential command undone—circumcising his son (vv. 25-26). The encounter shouts that God’s servants must first meet His expectations before they can represent Him to others. The heart of the issue: neglected obedience • Circumcision was the covenant sign given to Abraham’s descendants (Genesis 17:10-14). • Moses knew the requirement but delayed, perhaps to avoid family tension or cultural friction in Midian. • God’s willingness to “kill him” underscores that no calling, reputation, or future usefulness excuses disobedience. • Zipporah’s quick action shows that decisive repentance restores fellowship and averts judgment. Timeless principles for aligning with God • Obedience outweighs every other offering (1 Samuel 15:22). • Delayed obedience is disobedience (Psalm 119:60). • God expects leaders to model covenant faithfulness in their homes first (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; 1 Timothy 3:4-5). • The outward sign points to an inward reality; today God seeks “circumcision of the heart” (Deuteronomy 10:16; Romans 2:29). • Reverent fear guards us from casual treatment of His commands (Hebrews 12:28-29). • Love expresses itself through keeping Christ’s words (John 14:15). Practical steps for daily life • Immerse yourself in Scripture daily to know what God expects (Psalm 1:2). • Invite the Spirit to search your heart for any neglected command (Psalm 139:23-24). • Confess and turn quickly when conviction comes (1 John 1:9). • Lead your household into visible, shared obedience—regular worship, baptism, communion, service (Joshua 24:15). • Align private habits with public witness; integrity starts where no one else sees (Proverbs 4:23). • Trust and submit your plans to the Lord rather than leaning on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6). Encouragement for the journey “For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.” (Philippians 2:13) His grace empowers the very obedience He requires, ensuring that every step of surrendered faith moves us into deeper alignment with His heart and purposes. |
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