What does Moses' patience in Acts 7:30 teach us about waiting on God? The Burning Bush Appears After Forty Years “After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai.” (Acts 7:30) • Moses was about 40 when he fled Egypt (Acts 7:23–29). • Another 40 years slipped by while he tended sheep in Midian (Exodus 2:15; 3:1). • Only then did God break the silence and launch Moses into leadership. The Hidden Curriculum of the Wilderness • Stripping away self-reliance – The prince became a shepherd, learning humility and dependence (Numbers 12:3). • Training in obscurity – No crowds, no applause, just faithful, monotonous service. • Hearing God’s voice – Quiet seasons sharpen spiritual ears; the burning bush would stand out clearly against decades of silence. • Timing that protects and prepares – Israel’s cry (Exodus 2:23-25) and Moses’ readiness converged exactly when God intended. What Moses’ Patience Looks Like • Waiting does not equal idleness; Moses worked, married, raised children, and kept responsibilities. • He stayed in place until God moved him; no self-promoted return to Egypt. • His patience was rewarded with a clear, unmistakable call—no confusion about next steps. Scriptures That Echo the Lesson • “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!” (Psalm 27:14) • “But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles…” (Isaiah 40:31) • “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9) • “The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some understand slowness…” (2 Peter 3:9) Practical Ways to Wait Well Today • Serve faithfully where you are—your “Midian” job or task matters. • Guard your heart from resentment; gratitude keeps impatience at bay. • Keep listening—stay in Scripture and prayer so you recognize God’s voice when He speaks. • Trust God’s calendar—He knows both your growth curve and the needs of those you will serve. • Encourage others who are also in waiting seasons; shared patience strengthens resolve. Takeaway Truths to Hold Onto • God-ordained delays are never wasted time. • Patience refines character for greater assignments. • When the moment comes, obedience must be immediate—forty years of waiting met with instantaneous surrender (Exodus 3:4). • Waiting on God aligns us with His perfect purpose and power, just as it did for Moses. |
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