Step By Step: There Is No A to Z
We live in a world that craves immediate gratification. When we set a goal, we want to achieve it now. When we see our flaws, we want to overcome them instantly. Yet, God’s process of transformation rarely happens all at once. More often, He leads us step by step, using struggles, confusion, and even rebellion to shape us into men and women of real purpose.
Many times in my life, I have wanted to jump from step A to step Z. But God is more often on the A-to-B-to-C plan. Through this journey, we not only learn more about ourselves, but more about who we are in Him. A perfect example of this is the life of Moses.
Moses: A Step-by-Step Transformation
Moses' journey illustrates how God develops people gradually, preparing them for their purpose.
Step 1: Early Potential (Exodus 2:1-10)
Born a Hebrew but raised as an Egyptian prince, Moses had leadership skills and privilege. Yet, he was torn between two identities, foreshadowing the inner struggles that would define his journey.
Step 2: Wilderness & Humility (Exodus 2:11-25)
After killing an Egyptian in anger, Moses fled to Midian, spending 40 years as a shepherd. This season of isolation humbled him and prepared him for future leadership.
Step 3: God’s Call & Resistance (Exodus 3-4)
God appeared in the burning bush, calling Moses to free Israel. Moses hesitated, offering excuses (“I am not eloquent”), but God reassured him with signs and provided Aaron as support. Moses we reluctant to answer God's call.
Step 4: Confronting Pharaoh (Exodus 5-11)
Moses faced Pharaoh and witnessed ten plagues, growing in boldness and trust as he saw God work powerfully through him.
Step 5: Red Sea & Leadership (Exodus 12-15)
With Pharaoh’s army in pursuit, Moses trusted God to part the Red Sea, leading Israel to freedom and solidifying his leadership.
Step 6: Guiding Israel (Exodus 16–40, Numbers, Deuteronomy)
Challenges: Complaints from the people, receiving the Ten Commandments, and interceding for Israel after the golden calf incident. The Israelites were a hard group to lead.
Struggles: Moments of frustration, including striking the rock instead of speaking to it, seeing his people question and want to return to Egypt, and finding others who could share the burden of leading were always present. (Numbers 20:10-12).
Moses became a great leader, but his journey was filled with confusion, doubt, frustration, and repetition. His greatness was ultimately fulfilled when he put his full faith and trust in God's plan.
Embracing the Process
So, leader, as you venture on your journey to find true purpose, understand that each step is shaping you. Some steps feel like setbacks. Others are steep climbs. Sometimes, we cruise along smoothly. But in all of it, God is revealing more and preparing us for what’s next. Trust the process, embrace the journey, and be ready for each step as it unfolds.
-Mark
