Focal Passage: Exodus 17:8-13; 24:13-15
The second study of this quarter focuses on the role of the supporting casts of the Bible. No one likes to play second fiddle. We all aspire to leading roles in the activities we pursue. This is the road to self-centeredness and conceit. Rather, God calls us to a life of servant-hearted ministry. We must realize it really is not about us in the first place; it is about giving glory to God and the Lord Jesus Christ. As John the Baptist said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). In church ministry and leadership, we will all play second fiddle to the Head of the Church, Jesus the Messiah. May we be good servants of the Master who has called us.
Be present to help as needed. God called Moses to lead His people out of Egypt to the Promised Land. His leadership of Israel in the wilderness dominates the narrative from Exodus to Deuteronomy. Regardless, Moses relied on a host of individuals to help guide the people along the way. In this passage we see Joshua called upon to battle against the Amalekites. Aaron and Hur accompanied Moses up the hill to assist in his task of maintaining God’s presence over the battle. They were present with Moses. If you want to be called upon to serve in a particular ministry at church, you must be present in the first place. Show up to serve and God will provide the ministry opportunities. Aaron and Hur did not know what help they would give. They simply went with Moses up the hill. God would give them a vital role to play in the upcoming battle.
Moore
Be supportive by doing what you can. Joshua’s battle with the Amalekites proved to be quite unique. The narrative highlights that when Moses held up his hands, Joshua prevailed. But as his hands lowered, the Amalekites would gain the advantage. As Moses grew tired, God provided Aaron and Hur the opportunity to assist in securing Israel’s battle success. The two helpers found a stone upon which Moses sat. They then supported his hands so that they would remain raised as long as the sun shined. The battle was won. Joshua received the credit for winning the fight on the field. Moses maintained the presence of God among the people. Aaron and Hur were unsung supporters in the cause, but their service proved vital.
Be dependable no matter how great or small your assignment may be. In Exodus 24 God called Moses up to Mount Sinai to receive the law and instructions to build the tabernacle of the Lord. Before leaving the people Moses instructed the elders to look to Aaron and Hur for leadership. Aaron and Hur began as sidekicks who simply helped their leader hold up his hands. However, when God called Moses and Joshua to a long absence up the mountain, these assistants suddenly became vital to the leadership of the entire nation. Being a dependable servant of the Lord in small, seemingly insignificant ministry tasks often leads to even greater kingdom work. Jesus says, “Whoever is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much” (Luke 16:10). As the Lord says through Zechariah, do not despise the day of small things (Zechariah 4:10). B&R
