God's Exclusive Deal: A Heart of Devotion
Verse:Exodus 33:11
"The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend; and he would return to the camp, but his servant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, did not depart from the tent."
In this profound passage, we witness the extraordinary intimacy between God and Moses, conversing face-to-face like close friends. As Moses returned to the camp, his young aide Joshua remained in the tent, deeply connected to God's presence, unwilling to leave.
Joshua's unwavering commitment raises a question: Why Joshua, and not Gershom, Moses' own son? The answer lies in God's eternal plan, where family ties are transcended by divine purpose. The business in the tent was not Moses' family affair but God's exclusive deal, in which Joshua had been involved since eternity.
Before Joshua's birth, God chose him for a greater purpose, implanting an inner calling that drew him irresistibly to the tent, where God's presence dwelled. Moses, included in God's eternal plan, recognized a deep connection with Joshua, forged in the fire of divine purpose.
When God draws someone near to His service, we must not send them away. Instead, wisdom dictates allowing them to remain in God's service while we return to our home. This principle underscores God's sovereignty in appointing leaders.
No one is senior or junior in God's eyes, as the truth 'eternally called' denies human successions. Moses never sought a successor among his sons, trusting God alone to choose the next leader. He knew God was responsible for appointing leaders, and Joshua's call was undeniable.
Moses trusted Joshua's call, leaving him in the tent, demonstrating faith in God's sovereign selection. Those who value God's call would never seek a successor among family members when someone is already called and dedicated to God's service back in the tent.
Joshua's heart beat in harmony with God's, and Moses recognized this divine connection. This narrative teaches us that:
God's plans are eternal, surpassing human timelines.
His call is irrevocable, transcending human successions.
Those who value God's call prioritize divine assignment over earthly relationships.
As we reflect on this passage, let us recognize:
God's exclusive deals are not limited to family ties.
His call is personal, drawing us to His service.
Dear God,
Help us recognize Your eternal connections.
Grant us wisdom to support those You have called.
May our hearts beat in harmony with Yours.
Strengthen those who remain in Your presence.
Guide us to trust Your sovereign selection.
May we prioritize Your divine assignments above all.
Amen.