Moses

Top Secret

Posted on by Shannon

Every once in a while we get a glimpse in to the secret side of the world’s governments. Matters that are “Top Secret” are sometimes suddenly revealed by the work of computer hackers, or one foreign government trying to root out the secrets of another. As long as there have been governments, prying eyes have tried to steal their closely-held secrets. Protecting information has become a big business.

Moses spoke of God’s secrets during a speech he delivered just before Israel was to enter the Promised Land. He warned them not to neglect the Law, for there would be dire consequences. This they could count on, because God had revealed it. Then Moses said this: “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our sons forever, that we may observe all the words of this law.” (Deut.29:29)

There are many things we would like God to explain. We all wonder about the difficult things of life, whether or not there are reasons for them. The word “WHY” is not just a favorite question of toddlers, for people of all ages ask it. Moses helped us to understand that God has his secrets and it is not for us to demand answers of Him for things He has not revealed at this time. But Moses noted that God has revealed enough for us to keep going in life, to keep believing and be satisfied with what He has said. Many things will remain a mystery until Jesus returns and we can finally go with Him to meet our God. I’m sure the Lord will be happy to answer all of our questions at that time.

Until then, we must trust Him and be grateful for what He has revealed. “The things revealed belong to us.”

– Tim Johnson

The Unknown Grave

Posted on by Shannon

There’s a curious note at the end of the book of Deuteronomy describing the death and burial of Moses. As you remember, God allowed him to see an overview of the Promised Land from a perch on top of Mount Nebo, then he passed away. “And He buried him in the valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth-peor; but no man knows his burial place to this day.” (Deut.34:6) Continue reading →

Solitude

Posted on by Shannon

Jesus prayingIn our hectic world solitude is missing. As we age we have more time to be alone, and for some people solitude becomes loneliness. But there is a need to practice a measure of it.

When Moses escaped Egypt, he spent four decades in the wilderness with few people nearby. It gave him time to think about his life, to learn humility and trust in God, not just himself. When he saw the burning bush, he was ready to be a leader. (Ex.3).

When Saul obeyed the gospel in Damascus, his whole life changed. He needed some time alone, so he went away for a while in Arabia before proceeding with his new role as an apostle. (Gal.1:17-18). Sometimes we need space to make important changes in our thinking. Continue reading →

Vision

Posted on by Shannon

The world cries out for men of vision. Great problems of society long for solutions. Elections loom and we look for leaders with solid ideas. People listen to those who speak with wisdom and foresight. Visionaries of the past are still honored today. If there is no vision, there is decline and corruption (Prov.29:18).

The secret to wise vision is the wisdom only God can give. For eighty years Moses had the wrong vision. God had to break him before he paid attention to the correct one. Even then, he complained and objected to God’s vision. But he soon agreed, and gave himself to his new vision for his final 40 years on earth. And what a great leader he was! God must break us before He can instill His vision into our hearts. Continue reading →