Exodus 5:23

Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in Your name, he has brought trouble on this people, and You have not delivered Your people in any way."

Study Bible

Ever since I went to Pharaoh
This phrase marks the beginning of Moses' lament to God, highlighting his obedience in approaching Pharaoh as commanded. The Hebrew root for "went" (בּוֹא, bo) implies entering or coming into a place, signifying Moses' boldness and faith in stepping into the Egyptian court. Historically, this reflects the daunting task Moses faced, confronting the most powerful ruler of the time. It underscores the courage required to follow God's commands, even when the immediate results seem discouraging.

to speak in Your name
Moses emphasizes that his actions were not of his own volition but were carried out under divine authority. The phrase "in Your name" signifies acting as God's representative, invoking His power and presence. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a name carried the essence and authority of the person. Moses' use of God's name indicates the seriousness and sacredness of his mission, reminding believers of the importance of aligning their actions with God's will and authority.

he has brought trouble upon this people
The Hebrew word for "trouble" (רָעָה, ra'ah) can mean evil, harm, or adversity. Moses observes the immediate negative consequences of his obedience, as Pharaoh increased the Israelites' burdens. This reflects a common biblical theme where initial obedience to God can lead to trials, testing the faith and perseverance of His people. It serves as a reminder that God's plans often involve temporary hardships that ultimately lead to greater deliverance and blessing.

and You have not delivered Your people at all
Moses' complaint concludes with an expression of disappointment and confusion. The Hebrew word for "delivered" (נָצַל, natsal) means to snatch away, rescue, or save. Moses expected immediate liberation, yet God's timing and methods were different. This highlights a key aspect of faith: trusting in God's promises despite apparent delays or setbacks. It encourages believers to hold onto hope and trust in God's ultimate plan for deliverance, even when circumstances seem bleak.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The chosen leader of the Israelites, tasked by God to lead His people out of Egyptian bondage. In this verse, Moses is expressing his frustration and confusion to God.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who is obstinate and refuses to let the Israelites go, increasing their burdens instead.

3. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who are suffering under the harsh slavery imposed by Pharaoh.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, representing a place of bondage and oppression.

5. God (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who has promised deliverance but whose timing and methods are questioned by Moses in this moment of doubt.

Teaching Points

Understanding God’s Timing
God’s timing is not our timing. Moses’ frustration highlights a common human struggle with waiting on God’s promises. Trust in God’s perfect timing is essential.

Faith Amidst Trials
Like Moses, believers may face increased trials even when following God’s commands. Faith requires perseverance and trust in God’s ultimate plan.

God’s Faithfulness
Despite appearances, God is always faithful to His promises. Moses’ account reminds us that God’s deliverance may not come in the way or time we expect.

Prayer and Honest Communication with God
Moses’ candid conversation with God shows that we can bring our doubts and frustrations to Him. Honest prayer is a vital part of a relationship with God.

Leadership Challenges
Leaders may face discouragement and opposition. Moses’ experience teaches that leadership requires reliance on God and steadfastness in the face of adversity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses’ complaint in Exodus 5:23 reflect common human reactions to delayed answers to prayer?

2. In what ways can we see God’s faithfulness in our lives, even when His timing seems delayed?

3. How can the account of Moses and Pharaoh encourage us when we face opposition in our own spiritual journeys?

4. What can we learn from Moses about bringing our honest feelings and frustrations to God in prayer?

5. How do other biblical figures, like David or Habakkuk, handle feelings of abandonment or delay, and what can we learn from their responses?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:7-10
God’s initial call to Moses, where He promises to deliver the Israelites from Egypt, setting the stage for Moses' mission and his current frustration.

Psalm 13:1-2
David’s lament, which echoes Moses’ feelings of abandonment and questioning of God’s timing and faithfulness.

Habakkuk 1:2-3
The prophet Habakkuk’s complaint about God’s perceived inaction, similar to Moses’ complaint in Exodus 5:23.

2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Paul’s description of being hard-pressed but not crushed, which can be seen as an encouragement in times of trial and waiting for God’s deliverance.