How can Exodus 17:4 inspire us to seek God's guidance in crises? Setting the Scene in Exodus 17 - Israel has just experienced miraculous deliverance from Egypt and daily manna in the wilderness. - Yet, at Rephidim, there is no water. The people grumble and threaten Moses. - Exodus 17:4: “Then Moses cried out to the LORD, ‘What should I do with this people? A little more and they will stone me!’” - This historical moment shows a very real leader, cornered by fear and hostility, turning immediately to God. The Cry for Help Moses’ single sentence teaches volumes: • He acknowledges the crisis plainly. • He admits personal limitation—“What should I do?” • He directs the plea to the covenant-keeping LORD. • He expects an answer before panic overwhelms him. Lessons for Our Crises Today 1. Name the crisis honestly. Avoid denial; God can handle the truth (Psalm 62:8). 2. Confess inadequacy. Humility unlocks divine wisdom (James 4:6). 3. Turn first, not last, to the Lord (Psalm 50:15). Delay usually deepens anxiety. 4. Anticipate specific guidance. God speaks through His Word, His Spirit, and godly counsel (John 16:13). Practical Steps to Seek God’s Guidance • Pause and pray immediately—short, direct, urgent if needed (Philippians 4:6-7). • Search Scripture for God’s revealed will (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Listen in quiet stillness—Moses waited and then obeyed precise instructions (vv. 5-6). • Act in faith, even when the solution seems unconventional (strike the rock!). • Record God’s provision to bolster future trust (Exodus 17:14). Encouraging Examples from the Rest of Scripture - David at Ziklag: “David inquired of the LORD” and received strategy (1 Samuel 30:6-8). - Jehoshaphat under invasion: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You” (2 Chronicles 20:12). - Early church under persecution: they prayed and were filled with boldness (Acts 4:29-31). - Promise for all believers: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously” (James 1:5). Closing Reflections Exodus 17:4 invites every believer to trade panic for prayer. When threats loom large and resources vanish, the Lord remains the unfailing Counselor. Cry out, wait for His direction, and step forward in obedient faith; the God who brought water from a rock still guides His people today. |
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