What can we learn from Moses' willingness to dwell with Jethro's family? Setting the Scene “ Moses agreed to stay with the man, and he gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage.” (Exodus 2:21) The prince of Egypt becomes a shepherd in Midian. One verse captures a quiet but life-altering decision: Moses chooses to settle down with Jethro’s household. From that choice flow several rich lessons. Humble Submission to God’s Redirection • Moses trades palace privilege for a tent in the desert—a deliberate acceptance of God’s new path. • Philippians 2:5-7 reminds us that true greatness is shown through willing humility. • Lesson: Embrace God’s unexpected detours; they are never accidents but divine appointments. Patience in the Training Ground • Four decades pass between Moses’ arrival in Midian and the burning bush (Exodus 3:1). • James 1:3-4—“the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” • Lesson: Delay is not denial; waiting seasons shape durable faith and character. Faithfulness in Small Things • Moses herds sheep for years (Exodus 3:1). Shepherding hones the very skills he will need to guide Israel. • Luke 16:10—“Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” • Lesson: Daily obedience in routine tasks prepares us for larger responsibilities. Community and Godly Counsel • By staying, Moses places himself under Jethro’s mentorship. Much later, Jethro’s advice will streamline Israel’s judiciary (Exodus 18:17-24). • Proverbs 27:17—“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” • Lesson: Spiritual growth flourishes in community; seek and value wise counsel. Family as a Means of Covenant Blessing • Marriage to Zipporah weaves Moses into a covenant-minded family line of Midianite priests (Exodus 2:16). • Genesis 2:18—“It is not good for the man to be alone.” • Lesson: God often advances His purposes through the bonds of marriage and family discipleship. God Shapes Leaders in Obscurity • Moses is hidden away before he is placed on display. • David served in pastures before facing Goliath (1 Samuel 17:34-37). Paul spent years in Arabia before public ministry (Galatians 1:17-18). • Lesson: Private seasons with God precede public usefulness for God. Practical Takeaways for Today – Welcome God’s redirections with humility. – View waiting seasons as purposeful training, not wasted time. – Serve faithfully wherever you are placed; God is watching. – Cultivate relationships that sharpen your walk with the Lord. – Invest in family life; it is often God’s chosen conduit for blessing. |
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