How does Moses' action in Exodus 2:17 demonstrate godly leadership and compassion? Setting the Scene Exodus 2:17: “And when some shepherds came along and drove them away, Moses stood up and came to their rescue and watered their flock.” • Midianite well, seven vulnerable sisters, aggressive shepherds. • A lone Hebrew exile—Moses—sees injustice unfold in real time. Moses Steps In • He “stood up”: decisive, public action. • He “came to their rescue”: active defense of the oppressed. • He “watered their flock”: completes the task the sisters had started, ensuring their needs are fully met. Traits of Godly Leadership Displayed • Courage under pressure—confronts a stronger group (cf. Joshua 1:9). • Initiative—acts before anyone asks (cf. Nehemiah 2:12-18). • Servant-heartedness—does the hard work himself (cf. Mark 10:45). • Protection of the weak—defends those without power (cf. Psalm 82:3-4). Marks of Genuine Compassion • Compassion feels: Moses’ heart is stirred by injustice (cf. Isaiah 58:10). • Compassion acts: intervention replaces indifference (cf. 1 John 3:17-18). • Compassion finishes: he waters the flock, not just drives off the threat (cf. Proverbs 3:27). Lessons for Today’s Believers • See and respond—train spiritual eyes to notice need and respond quickly. • Use influence for others—leadership leverages strength for the vulnerable. • Finish the good work—move beyond emergency aid to holistic care. • Trust God with outcomes—faithful action often precedes formal calling, as with Moses. Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 31:8-9 – “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” • Isaiah 1:17 – “Learn to do right; seek justice; defend the oppressed.” • James 1:27 – “Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress.” • John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” |
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