Exodus 5:22

So Moses returned to the LORD and asked, "Lord, why have You brought trouble upon this people? Is this why You sent me?

Study Bible

So Moses returned to the LORD
The phrase "returned to the LORD" signifies Moses' direct and personal relationship with God. In Hebrew, the word for "returned" is "shuv," which implies a turning back or coming again to a place of origin. This reflects Moses' reliance on God as his source of guidance and strength. Historically, Moses' return to God highlights the intimate communication between God and His chosen leaders, a theme prevalent throughout the Old Testament. It underscores the importance of seeking divine counsel in times of distress and confusion.

and asked
The act of asking here is significant. The Hebrew word "sha'al" conveys a sense of inquiry or seeking understanding. Moses' questioning is not an act of defiance but a sincere quest for clarity. This reflects the human condition of seeking answers from God when faced with challenges. It is a reminder that God welcomes our questions and desires an honest relationship with us, where we can express our doubts and seek His wisdom.

Lord, why have You brought trouble upon this people?
The use of "Lord" here is translated from the Hebrew "Adonai," a title that denotes God's sovereignty and authority. Moses acknowledges God's supreme power even as he questions His actions. The phrase "brought trouble" is derived from the Hebrew "ra'a," meaning to do evil or harm. Moses is perplexed by the suffering of the Israelites, whom God has promised to deliver. This reflects a common biblical theme where God's people struggle to understand His ways, yet it also points to the trust that God’s ultimate plan is for good, even when it is not immediately apparent.

Is this why You sent me?
Moses' question reveals his inner turmoil and doubt about his mission. The Hebrew word for "sent" is "shalach," which means to send away or dispatch. Moses is grappling with the apparent contradiction between God's promise of deliverance and the current suffering of the Israelites. This moment of doubt is a powerful reminder of the human aspect of biblical figures, who, despite their divine calling, experience fear and uncertainty. It encourages believers to trust in God's purpose, even when the path is unclear, and to remain faithful to their calling despite challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in this passage, Moses is the leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He is in a moment of doubt and questioning God's plan.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who has called Moses to lead His people out of Egypt. Moses is addressing Him directly in this verse.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who are suffering under Egyptian oppression. Their increased burden leads Moses to question God.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It represents a place of bondage and suffering for God's people.

5. Pharaoh
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, he is the ruler of Egypt whose hardened heart leads to the increased suffering of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Questioning God in Times of Trouble
It's natural to question God when faced with unexpected difficulties. Moses' honest dialogue with God shows that we can bring our doubts and frustrations to Him.

God's Sovereignty and Timing
Even when circumstances seem to worsen, God's plan is still in motion. Trusting in His sovereignty and perfect timing is crucial for faith.

Leadership and Responsibility
As leaders, we may face moments of doubt and discouragement. Moses' example teaches us to seek God's guidance and reassurance in such times.

Faith Amidst Trials
Trials can strengthen our faith and character. Moses' experience reminds us that God often uses difficult situations to prepare us for greater purposes.

The Importance of Perseverance
Despite setbacks, perseverance in following God's call is essential. Moses' journey encourages us to remain steadfast in our mission.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' questioning of God in Exodus 5:22 reflect our own struggles with doubt and faith during difficult times?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work, even when our circumstances seem to worsen, as seen in the context of Exodus 5:22?

3. How can Moses' response to adversity in Exodus 5:22 inform our approach to leadership and responsibility in our own lives?

4. What other biblical figures experienced similar moments of doubt or questioning, and how did they find reassurance in God's plan?

5. How can the principles found in James 1:2-4 be applied to our understanding of the trials faced by Moses and the Israelites in Exodus 5:22?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:7-10
This passage provides context for God's initial call to Moses, where God expresses His awareness of the Israelites' suffering and His plan to deliver them.

Psalm 13:1-2
Similar to Moses' questioning, the psalmist expresses feelings of abandonment and questions God's timing and presence.

James 1:2-4
This New Testament passage encourages believers to consider trials as opportunities for growth, which can be related to Moses' situation of doubt and testing.