Teens in the Bible: Moses

Chapter 10 Teen Moses

Young Moses had been raised in the Pharaoh’s household, but he was certainly aware that he was a Hebrew. One of the most interesting things about him, I think, is that he committed murder at such a young age. He saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew. He didn't just rush in and break it up, no, first he looked around to see if anyone was watching, then he made his move. I suspect that he was a pretty strong teen, well-fed, trained in physical combat, and bold. He killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand. Hmm, he hid the body . . .

It was only a day later that he observed two Hebrews fighting and thought he’d intervene. One of them said to him, “Who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian?” Oops, guess Moses wasn't as sneaky as he thought he was. Perhaps when he rescued the man the day before that man couldn't keep a secret. Anyway, Moses got really spooked. And worse, Pharaoh found out (think evil foster grandfather) and tried to kill Moses. Moses had to flee. He went to live in Midian.

I think he was probably in his late teens then. I like what happened next. Still afraid, he sat down by a well and seven daughters of a priest came to draw water. Chances are their faces were hidden, but Moses was undoubtedly attracted to girls. When some shepherds came and tried to drive the sisters away Moses stepped in and came to their rescue. Amazing . . . from rescuer to murderer to refugee to rescuer again. Perhaps his heart was always in the right place.

There was a pretty fantastic reward. The sisters’ father, the priest, invited Moses to stay with them and gave him his daughter Zipporah in marriage. God had some mighty wonderful plans ahead for Moses, yet I can’t quite forget that first murder. Looks like even the worst mistake can get forgiveness.

(Next Saturday  Rahab)