What lessons on conflict resolution can we learn from Moses in Exodus 2:13? Setting the Scene “ The next day Moses went out and saw two Hebrews fighting; so he asked the one in the wrong, ‘Why are you striking your companion?’ ” (Exodus 2:13) Observe Moses’ Approach • He notices the quarrel • He identifies the party in the wrong • He speaks up with a question, not an accusation Lesson 1: Step In Compassionately • Ignoring strife lets it worsen (cf. Proverbs 17:14) • Moses “went out and saw”—he chose awareness over apathy Application: Move toward tension with a heart to help, not to win Lesson 2: Address the Wrong, Not the Worth • “Why are you striking …?” pinpoints behavior, not identity • Matthew 18:15: “If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately” Application: Separate the person’s value from the damaging action Lesson 3: Confront Early • Conflict was still between two individuals, not tribes • Ephesians 4:26: “Do not let the sun set upon your anger” Application: Swift, measured intervention prevents roots of bitterness Lesson 4: Use Questions to Open Dialogue • A question invites reflection; it lowers defenses • James 1:19: “Quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” Application: Ask before you tell; listen before you lecture Lesson 5: Affirm Shared Identity • “Companion” reminds both parties of their brotherhood • Ephesians 4:25: “We are members of one another” Application: Highlight common ground to soften hard hearts Lesson 6: Show Courageous Love • Moses risks rejection from his own people • 2 Timothy 1:7: God gives “power, love, and self-control” Application: True peacemaking often costs comfort but wins souls Lesson 7: Recognize Your Limits • Moses’ attempt did not instantly solve Israel’s strife; timing and heart readiness matter • Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust the Lord to “make your paths straight” Application: Obey God in confronting, then entrust outcomes to Him Putting It Into Practice 1. Notice conflict instead of sidestepping it 2. Pray for compassion, then approach promptly 3. Begin with a sincere question that probes motives 4. Call out the action, affirm the person’s worth 5. Remind everyone involved of shared identity in Christ 6. Accept that final resolution belongs to God, yet faithfulness belongs to you Learning from Moses, we step in early, speak with grace and truth, and leave the results in the hands of the Lord who alone brings lasting peace. |
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