Scripture

Our verse for today comes from Exodus 17:11, “And so it was, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed; and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.”

Background

Our God certainly does choose some unusual ways to manifest His power and will. I think of a family in our church that God is using in magnificent ways overseas to reach a nation of unbelievers. Many of the doors that He has opened for this family have come primarily as a result of one of their children having Down’s Syndrome. The story of this child and the interest he sparks in the care and value that God places on all life, even the handicapped, have allowed the gospel to go to places that it has never gone before. Through the inspiration of a child who can barely communicate, God is showing forth His love and salvation to a people who have never called on the name of Jesus. And Moses had no shortage of encounters with God where His power was displayed in ways other than how we might have expected. From the burning bush, to the plagues on Egypt, to passing through the Red Sea, God was never short on unique ideas of how to show exactly what He was capable of. So when He decides to give the Israelites victory over the Amalekites only while Moses is holding up his hand and staff, we shouldn’t be surprised.

Application

But we should take note of what occurs when Moses begins to tire. When his hands were lowered from exhaustion, the enemy prevailed in battle. But rather than explain that to God and ask for a different path to victory, Moses and company made a way to remain steadfast in God’s plan. Moses sat down, and Aaron and Hur supported his hands for the entire day, ensuring the Israelite victory. God’s design, which includes placing Him above all the blessings He grants us, changing the world through prayer, reading His words written to us long ago, serving those around us, and forgiving the unforgiveable, makes no sense to most of the people on this globe. But speaking through a child who barely talks doesn’t jive, either. Neither does winning a battle because of a man holding up a stick. So when the struggle comes, don’t look outside God’s plan for a new, improved design. Do whatever is necessary to stay the course, and snatch victory from defeat.

Charge

As we seek Him today, be reminded that God’s plan for you is not wavering or uncertain. His power and might are not limited by our ordinary expectations.

Salvation – Eternal Life in Less Than 150 Words