Moses lived to be one hundred twenty years old, and even at that age was noted as having eyes that had not dimmed and vigor that had not diminished. (Deuteronomy 34:7) In view of his life, it is interesting how Moses’ life story was divided into three forty year periods. He spent his first forty in Egypt (Acts 7:23), his second forty tending the flocks of his father-in-law (Acts 7:30), and the last forty years leading the nation of Israel through the wilderness. (Deuteronomy 29:5; Acts 7:36) What a journey that was of growing up with all the privileges that would have been associated with living in Pharoah’s palace, to becoming a humble shepherd, and then to leading a nation of people.
Of his life journey, it has been said, “Moses spent 40 years thinking he was somebody, 40 years learning he was nobody, and 40 years discovering what God can do with a nobody.” [D. L. Moody] In learning to humbly surrender the life to God, that sounds like some healthy self-discovery. The character that had developed in Moses which probably played a huge part in God’s using him was noted where we read. . .
“(3) Now the man Moses was very meek, more than all people who were on the face of the earth.” (Numbers 12:3 ESV)
At the core of Moses’ character was not a sense of pride, but meekness. Therefore we see how the reluctant Moses (i.e. Exodus 3:11; 4:10 & 13) became a resilient leader, continuing to plead with God on behalf of the people. (i.e. Exodus 32:10-14) He was not self-assuming in the role into which God brought him. We too will always do well to keep our attitude in check!
Though I have lived over forty years, it is not likely that I will live one hundred twenty. Have I been growing and learning my place during the years I have lived? In my youth I had a plan I ended up not following. While in college my life trajectory launched me toward ministry. Still, through the years of ministry I have had to continue learning to keep self out of the way and let God do the work He desires in and through me.
Forty years. As I preach to my Port Townsend brothers and sisters this morning, this marks forty years having ministered among them. However — reflecting back on the ups and downs, the joys and the sorrows, the conquests and the challenges, etc. — though my remaining may say something about me (and I have provided several opportunities for a change), I believe it is more of a reflection on God and His people here. In seeking to serve God as a minister of the Gospel of Jesus, this church family has embraced me, encouraged me, and challenged me to grow. In that God has truly blessed my life and the life of our family. I do not believe He is done using me yet, and though aging, He has continued to bless me with good health and vigor to press on in various aspects of ministry. May He open my eyes to His vision for continuing.
Though we give ourselves to the work of the Lord, we would do well to always keep in mind the reality of God being at work. As Paul exhorted Christians at Philippi in being serious about their faith and work, we read. . .
“(12) Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, (13) for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:12-13 ESV)
However long we each may live our individual lives, as we journey on, may it be God’s will and good pleasure being at work in and through us wherever we might be!
Have a great day GLORIFYING GOD IN HIS USING!
Carl
