This week’s study examines Moses’s return to Egypt and initial interactions with the Israelites and Pharaoh as recorded primarily in Exodus 5 and 6.

In spite of the fact that Pharaoh says a clear no to God’s demand to “ ‘let my people go,’ ” God prepares a way out for His people. However, the people lose their faith. Even Moses argues with God, asking why things are worse: “ ‘Why . . . have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me?’ ” (Exod. 5:22, NIV). The reason for these hard questions lies in the fact that, after the first direct encounter with Pharaoh, things became more complicated, and life for the Israelites worsened. Neither Moses nor the Israelites expected such a dilemma. They anticipated a quick deliverance from slavery because their God was the mighty Creator who could do things no one else can do. What a devastating disappointment! Nevertheless, God prepares the scene of deliverance and readies Moses and Aaron for a new confrontation with the king.

God is not calling us to be successful; He calls us to be faithful. We need to be faithful to His calling to do what is needed in order to be His good witnesses in whatever stage of growth we find ourselves. Our success and prosperity depend on Him. How can you, without being confrontational, help and lead others to see God’s hand and interventions in their lives?