By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.
The following is a popular excuse in today’s world: “I deserve to be happy and this way of living makes me happy. It is my choice.” And it’s common to hear other people echo these sentiments when referring to the person’s chosen path in life: “they deserve to be happy”. But what if the “happiness” that they are claiming contradicts the will of God…if it stands in direct opposition of how we are instructed to live? The text above highlights the incredible faith of Moses. He had the opportunity to live a very plush life as a member of the Pharaoh’s family. He would likely never be hungry, probably wouldn’t have to ever work, and would be protected from just about any conflict, danger, or hardship. He would be “happy”. Yet he refused, acknowledging that it was sinful. It was as if he said, “Sure, living this lifestyle would make me happy and very comfortable…but it is sinful…and I refuse to live that way, in direct opposition to the will of my God.” And it was not as if he was simply dropping from upper class status to middle class status…he was moving from royalty to the bottom of the barrel, where being mistreated, trampled, and abused was a given. Yet he did it anyway. He valued the will of God above his own comfort…the will of God above his own well-being, satisfaction, and safety. What an incredible example of faith in God we see in Moses…an example that we can draw from in our own lives. When we are tempted to live in sin because it is easier, more comfortable, more satisfying, more lucrative, or given greater status in society, may we recall the example set by Moses and allow the Lord to lead our lives…away from sin…away from lust, filth, greed, anger, and deceit…and into righteousness, purity, and holiness. There is no greater privilege in this world than living a life in service to the Lord! To God be the glory!
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