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 and asked
Moses, after facing Pharaoh's harsh response, turns back to God in prayer. This act of returning to the LORD signifies a pattern of seeking divine guidance and intervention, a common theme throughout the Bible. It reflects the intimate relationship Moses had with God, where he could openly express his concerns and frustrations. This mirrors the practice of lament found in the Psalms, where believers bring their grievances before God.

“Lord, why have You brought trouble upon this people?
Moses questions God’s intentions, reflecting a moment of doubt and confusion. This echoes the human tendency to question divine plans when faced with adversity. The phrase "brought trouble" can be connected to the Hebrew word "ra'ah," which often denotes calamity or evil. This highlights the tension between God's promises and the current suffering of the Israelites. It also parallels the cries of the Israelites in Exodus 2:23, where they groan under slavery, prompting God to act.

Is this why You sent me?
Moses questions his mission and purpose, a common theme in the lives of biblical figures who face trials. This reflects the testing of faith and the struggle to understand God's timing and methods. Moses' doubt can be compared to the struggles of other prophets, such as Jeremiah, who also questioned their calling (Jeremiah 20:7-9). This phrase foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan through Jesus Christ, who also faced moments of anguish and questioning in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39), yet remained obedient to His mission.

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.