The instruction Moses gave was to be passed along from generation to generation. After he finished with these specific instructions, Scripture says, “And the people bowed low and worshiped.”

God was saying to his servant, “Moses, you simply go before Pharaoh and deliver the goods. He won’t like it. He won’t want it. Just bear in mind that even his stubborn, hardened heart is not outside My will.”

Isn’t God gracious? We have a Lord who knows our hearts, knows our thoughts, and knows our fears. When Moses had left Egypt forty years before there were those who sought his life.

Moses, you’ll remember, approached his father-in-law Jethro and asked permission to return to Egypt. He certainly didn’t tell Jethro everything at that point, but he let the man know there was something stirring in his heart.

I think one of the most important words in this verse is the very first one. When. The Hebrew word means “at the same time.” That goes back to verse 3, where Moses said, “I must turn aside.”

I’m convinced Moses was doing more than grandstanding. I believe he was absolutely sincere. He didn’t see himself murdering a cruel slave driver as much as courageously striking a blow for God’s people.

Jochebed had faith. She also thought through a very creative plan. I’d like to pause to reflect on this tension between careful planning and full-hearted faith. Are they mutually exclusive? Not on your life!