Exodus 17 and 18 recount three important stories about Moses, including two miracles. First, the Jewish people complained to Moses that they were thirsty. So, Moses struck a rock, and water came out.
Second, there was a battle against the Amalekites. As long as Moses held his hands up, the Jews had the better of the battle. Moses got help holding his hands up. Third, Moses met his father-in-law Jethro. Jethro, a priest, was happy even though Moses had dumped his wife and kids. Do you think Jethro should have been so forgiving?
Exodus 17 and 18
In these two chapters of Exodus, there are three important stories. Two of these stories are miracles, and one is a big meeting for Moses. First, after the Jewish people left the Desert of Sin, they complained to Moses that they were thirsty. God told Moses that if he struck a nearby rock with his staff, water would come out. He did so, and water flowed from the rock.
Second, the Jewish people battled the Amalekites, who attacked them. Moses watched the battle from a nearby ridge. As long as he had his hands raised, the Jews had the better of the battle. When Moses lowered his hands, the Amalekites had the better of the battle. Moses grew tired, so Aaron and Hur brought a rock for Moses to sit on and supported his hands. It says in Exodus 17 that after he had his hands supported, the Jews overwhelmed the Amalekites.
Third, Moses met his father-in-law Jethro. Jethro was a priest of Midian. He was happy to hear all the wonderful things God had done for the Israelites and welcomed Moses with open arms. This may not seem like an important event, but it is. The homecoming, of sorts, demonstrates that there is abundant forgiveness for us.
Devotionals & Expressions of Faith
Moses shows tremendous faith in Exodus 17, both in striking the rock to get water and in raising his hands in the battle against the Amalekites. Moses speaks directly to God, who listens to him. Perhaps the antithesis of faith, the Jewish people once again complain that they have nothing to drink. In fact, they say, “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?”
Symbolism
The water flowing from the rock symbolizes Jesus on the cross. After he dies, his side is pierced with a lance by a Roman soldier. Water and blood flowed from the side of Jesus. This is like the water flowing out of the rock. Interestingly, there is a legend that the blood and water flowing from Christ’s side fell on the exact spots where Adam was buried.
Modern Relevance
These stories in Exodus are relevant to modern times. They demonstrate that God is with the Jewish people. It is said in Exodus that God is with them. It is like that with us. God is with us, though it may not seem that way.
Conclusion
These chapters of Exodus teach us important lessons. Because Moses performed two miracles with the help of God. He gets water from a rock, and in winning a battle against the Amalekites, he clearly demonstrates that God is with us in our most challenging moments. His meeting with Jethro is a great example of forgiveness. We must remain mindful that no matter how badly we sin, we can be forgiven.
Disclaimer: This article contains a summary of Exodus 17-18 as well as interpretive insights from the author. Interpretations of biblical texts can differ, and this piece represents one approach to understanding the passage.
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