How can we apply Moses' courage in confronting authority to our lives today? Setting the Scene Exodus 7:15 – “Go to Pharaoh in the morning when he goes out to the water. Confront him on the bank of the Nile, and take in your hand the staff that was turned into a snake.” • Moses stands before the most powerful ruler on earth, armed only with a staff and the word of the LORD. • The confrontation is public, intentional, and rooted in direct obedience to God’s command. • Scripture presents the event as historical fact; the miracle-working staff and the hardened Pharaoh are literal realities that showcase God’s supremacy. The Character of Courage What did Moses’ bravery look like? • Obedience over convenience – Moses goes “in the morning,” right on Pharaoh’s routine path, instead of choosing a safer time or place. • Confidence in God, not self – His trust rests in “the staff that was turned into a snake,” a tangible reminder of divine power. • Persistence – This is only the first of many confrontations; courage is not a one-time act but a repeated stance (Exodus 10:28–29). • Humility – Moses calls Pharaoh to submit, yet never demands glory for himself (Numbers 12:3). Principles for Today How does Moses’ example shape contemporary life? 1. God’s Word determines when and how we speak • Acts 5:29 – “We must obey God rather than men.” • When authority contradicts clear biblical mandates, courage means respectful but firm dissent. 2. Public faithfulness may be necessary • Matthew 5:14–16 – a city on a hill cannot be hidden. • Quiet faith has its place, yet some moments require visible allegiance to Christ despite pressure. 3. Equip yourself with visible reminders of God’s authority • Moses had a staff; we have Scripture. • Ephesians 6:17 – “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Regular meditation fuels courage. 4. Expect repeated confrontations • Pharaoh hardened his heart multiple times (Exodus 8:32). • Modern authority structures may resist godly convictions; perseverance is part of obedient living. 5. Courage and submission coexist • Romans 13:1 commands submission to governing authorities; Daniel 3 shows refusing sinful commands. • The balance: submit whenever possible, resist when obedience to God is at stake. Putting It into Practice • Examine motives – Ask whether your stand is genuinely for God’s glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Anchor every conviction in clear Scripture, not personal preference. • Pray for and pursue the Spirit’s boldness (2 Timothy 1:7). • Cultivate community – Hebrews 10:24–25 reveals we stand stronger together. • Prepare now – Small acts of obedience build muscles for greater confrontations later, just as Moses learned trust at the burning bush before facing Pharaoh. |
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