What can we learn from Moses about advocating for others before God? Moses Stands in the Gap Numbers 14 finds Israel grumbling on the brink of Canaan. God announces judgment, yet verse 13 records Moses’ immediate reply: “But Moses replied to the LORD, ‘The Egyptians will hear of it! For by Your strength You brought this people from among them.’” Moses’ Heart Revealed • He thinks first of God’s honor, not Israel’s failure. • He refuses self-advancement (v.12 offered him a new nation). • He loves the people who just rejected him (14:10). How Moses Advocates 1. Appeals to God’s reputation • v.13-16—What will Egypt and the nations say? • Psalm 115:1—“Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to Your name give glory.” 2. Recalls God’s character • v.18—“The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion…” (quoting Exodus 34:6-7). • Hebrews 10:23—“He who promised is faithful.” 3. Stands on God’s promises • v.17—“Let the power of my Lord be great, just as You have declared.” • Genesis 15:13-16; Exodus 32:13—God’s oath to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 4. Pleads for pardon, not excuses • v.19—“Please pardon the iniquity of this people…” • 1 John 1:9—God forgives confessed sin. Results of Intercession • Immediate wrath withheld—Israel spared extinction (v.20). • Consequences remain—discipline is real (v.29-34), yet mercy triumphs over annihilation. • God’s glory displayed—nations witness His justice and grace intertwined. Scripture Echoes of the Same Pattern • Exodus 32:11-14—Moses on Sinai. • Deuteronomy 9:18-20—Forty days of fasting prayer. • Samuel for Israel—1 Samuel 12:23. • Job for friends—Job 42:8-10. • Abraham for Sodom—Genesis 18:22-33. • Jesus for believers—John 17; Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:34. Lessons for Our Prayer Life • Intercession is love in action—Philippians 2:4. • Start with God’s glory; personal comfort comes second. • Anchor prayers in revealed character and promises; quote Scripture back to God. • Seek real forgiveness for people, not mere relief from consequences. • Expect God to blend mercy and discipline wisely. • Trust the greater Moses—Jesus—who “always lives to intercede for them” (Hebrews 7:25). Putting It into Practice • Carry others’ burdens to the throne daily—Ephesians 6:18. • Name God’s attributes as you pray (faithful, compassionate, just). • Remind Him of His promises for the people you’re lifting up. • Ask boldly for pardon and transformation, believing His Word. |
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