Exodus chapter 8 verses 25 – 27 (NIV)
Then Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Go, sacrifice to your God here in the land.” But Moses said, “That would not be right. The sacrifices we offer the LORD our God would be detestable to the Egyptians. And if we offer sacrifices that are detestable in their eyes, will they not stone us? We must take a three-day journey into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to the LORD our God, as hecommands us.”
Deuteronomy chapter 5 verse 32 (NlV)
“So be careful to do what the Lord your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left.”
God had told Moses that Pharaoh wouldn’t yield. When the plagues came, the Egyptian people suffered the consequences of Pharaoh’s hardness of heart. He wanted the plagues to be lifted so he offered a compromise, in the hope that this would suffice. But Moses stood his ground, he knew what God was doing. Sometimes people think we are being too extreme in our beliefs. Surely a compromise is sufficient they may say. Surely God doesn’t expect that much from you? They may think that they are being a voice of reason intending to make things easier for us. It may be said with the best of intentions, or it may be cynical and trying to catch us out. We however need to be clear we need to stick to what God has asked us to do. In these instances, compromise isn’t an option. Remember what the serpent said to Eve; “Did God really say?” We must not let doubt or compromise set in. We must be as single-minded as Jesus at Gethsemane when He said, My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew chapter 26 verse 39) Moses remained obedient and God’s will was done. The Israelites left Egypt. Jesus was obedient so that we could be reconciled with God and have eternal life. How than can we do any less than be obedient?
Dear Lord,
Thank You for Moses’ singlemindedness in the face of opposition. Help me to emulate that and remember Jesus’ prayer at Gethsemane when compromise seems like an easier way. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.