Finding Purpose in the Wilderness: Exodus 2-3

December 2nd, 2025
by Richie Cancel

Introduction:

The story centers around Exodus chapters 2 and 3, where we follow Moses from his dramatic rescue as a baby to his calling at the burning bush. Exodus 3:12 is pivotal: "God said, 'I will certainly be with you. And this shall be a sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God on this mountain.'"

Life is rarely what we expect. We plan and set our courses, only to find ourselves navigating unexpected and often unwelcome paths. But in these moments of uncertainty and waiting, God is at work, weaving His divine purposes in our lives. The story of Moses in the book of Exodus unveils a beautiful truth about our spiritual journey: we are saved not just from despair, but for something greater. Let’s dive deep into this story and see how Moses' life reflects God's purposeful orchestration, which sets us free so we can, in turn, respond by serving Him.

Exodus 3:12

So He said, “I will certainly be with you. And this shall be a sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain.”

When Letting Go Is the Only Way Forward

How Do We Trust God When We’ve Lost Control?

Imagine a mother making the harrowing choice to place her infant son into the Nile River to save him from Pharaoh's decree of death. Exodus 2:3 recounts, "But when she could no longer hide him, she took an ark of bulrushes, daubed it with asphalt and pitch, put the child in it, and laid it in the reeds by the river’s bank." Her faith shows us a crucial aspect of faith: surrender.

It's tempting to hold tightly to the reins of our lives, trying desperately to control our family, career, or circumstances. But Moses' mother embodies a trust that gives us a roadmap: do all you can, then leave the rest to God's sovereignty. Her action may challenge us today—what are you clinging to that God is asking you to release?

God's Sovereign Orchestration

How Is God Working Behind the Scenes in Our Lives?

In a plot twist only God could orchestrate, Pharaoh’s daughter finds and spares Moses, even hiring his biological mother to nurse him (Exodus 2:5-9). What seemed like the end was only the beginning of God's perfect plan, reminding us that what appears hopeless can be a strategic setup for divine intervention.

This pattern is not just present in Moses' story but repeats throughout scripture, revealing God’s grand narrative where nothing catches Him off guard. Perhaps there are moments in our lives where God’s unseen hand is likewise weaving situations for His glory and our good.

How Can Our Burdens Transform Into Our Purpose?

The Burden That Becomes Your Calling

Years go by and Moses’ sense of justice ignites when he witnesses an Egyptian mistreating a Hebrew slave—his natural passion turns into impulsive action, resulting in murder (Exodus 2:11-12). It's a lesson many of us recognize: compassion without divine direction can lead to chaos.

We are encouraged by Moses’ experience to pause and inquire of God. Do our passions align with His purposes? Are we acting out of impulse, or are we looking up and seeking His guidance? Moses' initial failure was not his end; it was a turning point for greater understanding and eventual redemption.

The Wilderness of Preparation

How Does God Use Our Mountaintops and Valleys to Prepare Us?

Moses' flight to Midian becomes a season of divine preparation. Here, Moses takes on the lowly role of a shepherd, an occupation despised by his Egyptian peers, yet perfectly fitting for God’s plans. Exodus 3:1 tells us, "Moses was tending the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law."

During this phase, Moses learns humility and servitude—lessons critical for leading Israelites. If you find yourself in circumstances you never chose, remember how God uses these times to mold and ready us for future service. Your current challenges are not wayward detours but divine preparations.

In the Process of Time

Why Is God’s Timing Always Right?

The timing in Moses’ life, described as "in the process of time" (Exodus 2:23), underscores God’s perfect patience and planning. It reminds us to trust His timeframe, which works in concert with our readiness and His wider purposes. Are current adversities God’s silent expressions, teaching us to wait so He can work more profoundly in us and through us?

The Burning Bush Moment

What Prompts Us to Recognize God’s Presence?

Moses' encounter with God via the burning bush, as recorded in Exodus 3, connects his years of preparation with God's calling. "Moses, Moses!" God calls, as Moses stands upon holy ground, instructed to remove his sandals (Exodus 3:4-5). This encounter illustrates how God can catch our attention, inviting us to recognize His holiness amidst our ordinary moments.

God reassures Moses of His presence and calls him to lead His people (Exodus 3:12-14). It's a call rooted not in Moses' capability but in who God is—"I AM WHO I AM."

Saved to Serve

How Do Redemption and Responsibility Interconnect in Our Lives?

Moses’ deliverance paves the way for a life devoted to God’s service. His journey from the Nile basket to Midian and then back to Egypt speaks of a God who saves us to serve others. This truth echoes into our present reality—our salvation leads us toward a life of service. The passions you possess might very well be God’s fingerprint on your heart, directing how you can serve Him and others.

Moses was commanded to gather the elders (Exodus 3:16), illustrating our need for community in fulfilling God's call. None of us are lone rangers in the kingdom; we are called to walk alongside others.

Practical Application for Today: Living the Lessons in Brooklyn 

How Do These Biblical Teachings Apply to Modern Life?

For those of you living in Brooklyn, NYC, this narrative asks you to reflect on how you might see the unseen hands of God at work in your local community. Are there burdens you carry—issues within your community or personal life—that God is calling you to address? Could these be God’s whispers, nudging you toward action? From your local church to the diverse challenges around you, God can use you to make a difference right where you are.

Prayer:

Consider where you are today. Perhaps you’re wrestling with God's purposes or waiting on His timing. Acknowledge that God is at work even when you can't see it, and like Moses, be ready for your burning bush moment. Let us pray:

"Father, remind us of Your sovereign orchestration in our lives. Help us release control, trust Your timing, and walk in humility. May we serve You with joy, using the passions You’ve placed within us. Amen."