4. Old Testament Walkers and Talkers

vii. Moses

Thinking

The Bible records that, "Never since has there arisen a prophet in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face" (Deuteronomy 34: 10). This conversational life style began when he was 80 years of age and when he met with God at the burning bush. In this extensive conversation, Moses heard God's voice, witnessed his power, received instructions on how to deal with Pharaoh, and then began to put into action the task given to him (Exodus 3: 4 to 4: 17 and 4: 21-27). This meeting with God also heralded the commencement of 40 years as leader of the Children of Israel - bringing them out of Egypt and to the Promised Land.

Further conversations between God and Moses can be grouped as: -

a.. More instructions before meeting Pharaoh (Exodus 5: 22-6: 8 and 6: 28-7: 19).

b.. Specific instructions for initiating the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 8-11).

c.. Instructions related to the Passover (Exodus 12: 1-20 and 12: 43-48).

d.. Ten specific instructions before receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 14-19).

e.. The Ten Commandments given to Moses (Exodus 20: 2-17).

f.. Further instructions - rules and regulations (Exodus 20: 22 - 23: 33).

g.. On Mt Sinai when he saw God along with the 70 elders (Exodus 24: 9).

h.. Later instructions to Moses (Exodus chapters 24 - 33).

i.. At the tent of meeting when (it is recorded) that Moses spoke to God face to face as a man speaks to his friend (Exodus 33: 9-23).

j.. Again on Mt Sinai (Exodus 34: 6-27).

k.. At the setting up the tabernacle (Exodus 40: 1-15).

l.. Further commands of rules and regulations throughout Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.

Praying

Lord, I am sure that there will have been many books and thousands of sermons preached about this servant of yours. Where do I start and stop?

Listening

We don't need to uncover every point today, my son. Just a few to feed your spirit as distinct from your mind. Think about this one. Moses was 80 years old when he first heard me speak to him!

Praying

That's quite a contrast compared with Samuel about whom I shall reflect in a few days time. I see this as a challenge to folk of more senior years. Growth into you is not just for younger people. We are never able to say, "I have now arrived," in this life. Moses probably had a bit more free time out in the desert compared with busy city life in the palace, and we need time, space, and sometimes solitude to hear your voice within.

Listening

Yes, my son. I want older people to be encouraged to make the most of having a quieter phase of life and sometimes a bit more time. Come to me, walk with me, listen to me, and spend time with me. You will find my presence a source of great joy. And remember, while your body may tire, your soul grows.

Praying

'I sense that a lot of your words to Moses were instructions.

Listening

These are the words that are recorded, but remember that it is also recorded that "he knew me face to face". Knowing my presence is more than receiving commands. Knowing my presence feeds your soul, strengthens your faith, and restores the relationship with me that was intended at creation. As you grow older, you will find these things to be more and more important to you. This is spiritual well being, and spiritual growth.

Praying

Lord, I also read that Moses spoke to you as a man speaks to his friend. Just now, I want to reach up and out to you as my best friend, but I find that you are here even before I begin to move. More precious is the sure knowledge that you reached out to find me, as you do to everyone; I could not reach out to you. But the most precious word is the change from "friend" in the book of Exodus to "family" and "sonship" in the New Testament. This is the wonder, grace and love that comes with receiving and knowing Jesus. May this joy thrill me more and more as I grow into older years. Help me to share these precious thoughts with my "older" brothers and sisters, so that we may know this joy together - in you.

Copyright Howard Smith 2002. All Rights reserved.

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