Responsibility is a heavy thing to carry, especially when the pressures of life rise. In those moments, it becomes tempting to rely on our own strength rather than remain present to the Good Shepherd who still leads us. The need to do something can feel faithful – but it often costs us the very guidance we need most.
This was the case with Moses. While he knew intimately the faithfulness of God to act on behalf of his people, in a moment of frustration and weariness Moses acted from irritation rather than trust – striking the rock to bring water for the people instead of speaking to it as God instructed.
Moses was pursuing the same outcome that God was, but he was not obedient to do it in God’s way.
This is our danger as well. We’ve seen God’s faithfulness. And we don’t doubt what he’s capable of doing. But in the heat of the moment we fail to stay dialed into his presence and his way of doing things.
Perhaps our fears or frustrations cause us to make impulsive decisions. We might have a very clear sense of our work and calling, how we’re to manage our money, or the correction needed in our relationships. But instead of listening and waiting on God’s timing and way we take matters into our own hands.
Our disobedience is not from a disbelief in God’s power. It’s from our exhaustion and the refusal to wait on his timeline and his way.
But it’s in this waiting that our souls are stretched and formed. The point is not to become passive, but discerning as we deepen our intimacy with God – letting him be the good Shepherd in charge of every aspect of our lives.
The pressure of life is either forming your deeper relationship with God or allowing pride to tempt you to take matters into your own hands. Do not neglect the work that is yours to do. But continue listening and staying in step with the voice of Christ as you do.
