By examining Moses ‘ calling, we can learn much about fulfilling our calling as believers to know God and make Him known in every area and role in our lives. Let’s begin by getting to know Moses by understanding the context of his birth. The Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, enduring harsh treatment and oppression under Pharaoh’s rule. In a desperate attempt to control their growing population and strength, Pharaoh ordered the killing of all Hebrew baby boys. It is in this dire situation that Moses enters the scene.
Moses’ early life is marked by a remarkable series of events highlighting God’s providence, protection, and sovereignty. Exodus 2:1–10 narrates how Moses, born to a Levite woman during a time of persecution, is miraculously saved when his mother places him in a basket among the reeds by the riverbank. Pharaoh’s daughter discovers him, and he is raised in the palace as her son, whom she named Moses, meaning “I drew him out of the water.”
The imagery of Moses’ life-saving basket is a powerful metaphor for God’s providential care in our lives. Just as Moses was protected and guided by God’s hand from the dangers of the Nile River, believers are reminded of God’s watchful presence and guidance in their journeys. God’s sovereignty is evident throughout Moses’ early life. Despite his birth’s perilous circumstances, God has a plan and purpose for Moses. This underscores the broader theme of God’s sovereignty over our lives, even in times of uncertainty and danger.
Furthermore, Moses’ story showcases God’s provision and protection. God provided a way for Moses to escape harm and ensured his safety in Pharaoh’s household. Similarly, despite challenges and difficulties, believers are assured of God’s provision and protection. Moses’ mother’s act of faith in placing him in the basket reflects the importance of trust and faithfulness in God. Believers are encouraged to trust God’s faithfulness, knowing He is always working for their good, even in challenging circumstances. The narrative of Moses’ life-saving basket sets the stage for his transformative journey. It foreshadows God’s redemption and purpose in store for Moses and, by extension, for all believers. No matter the circumstances or challenges faced, God can use each of us for His glory, our good, and the blessing of others.
Transitioning to Moses’ life in Egypt, we see a period of privilege, education, and identity struggle. As the adopted son of Pharaoh’s daughter, Moses grows up in luxury and receives the best education available. However, he also grapples with questions of identity and loyalty to his Hebrew heritage. Moses’ pivotal moment comes when he witnesses an Egyptian mistreating a Hebrew and intervenes, leading to his flight from Egypt to Midian as Pharoh is determined to put him to death (Exodus 2:11-15).
In Midian, Moses assumes a new identity as a shepherd and marries into a local family, living a quiet life for forty years. At the age of eighty, Moses encounters God in the burning bush, receiving a life-altering call to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Despite his initial doubts and insecurities, God assures Moses of His presence, provision, and empowerment for the task ahead (Exodus 3:1-12; 4:1-17).
The story of Moses’ life-saving basket, his upbringing in Egypt, and his call at the burning bush resonates with believers on multiple levels. It speaks of God’s sovereignty, provision, faithfulness, and transformative power in the lives of His people. Just as God called Moses to a remarkable purpose, believers are invited to embrace God’s callings in their own lives, trusting in His guidance and provision every step of the way.
The call we receive from God may not always come in spectacular ways like a burning bush, nor do our lives seem as extraordinary as Moses’. However, through Jesus Christ, who sacrificed Himself for our sins and rose again for our salvation, we are undergoing a transformation for a significant purpose, guided by the love of God, who sent His Son for us. God’s call is not limited by our circumstances or backgrounds; it encompasses every follower of Jesus Christ.
Despite starting from humble beginnings, God’s touch can lead to remarkable callings and personal transformations. His constant work in our lives has no “in-between times”; He is always preparing us for His intentions, even if His call disrupts our plans initially, as it ultimately leads to deep transformation and meaningful purpose. In times of uncertainty, God’s provision and empowerment enable us to face challenges and fulfill our calling to know God and make Him known. Every individual, whether a pastor, teacher, student, clerk, mother, or father, is called by God to fulfill this purpose in their secondary roles. Surrendering to God’s callings on our lives allows us to align with His intentions and experience the profound transformation and purpose He has in store for us. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!