Moses

 Moses ranks along with many of the great Old Testament Bible saints, his influence is still felt in our justice system even today. Despite this, he was tempted by Satan, but prevailed as Hebrews 11:24-26 would summarise for us. “By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he was looking to the reward.” 

Satan tempted Moses in three ways by offering him: 

1. The Throne of this World 

Having been adopted by an Egyptian princess, he would have been in line to become Pharaoh. Remember that Egypt was the world powerhouse in that day with all its sophistication and wisdom. Its progress in arts, science, history, religion was unsurpassed. Despite all this, Moses was controlled by his faith. He could have perhaps justified staying in his position so that he could influence for good the Israelis’ plight, but he “refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter”. 

2. The Thrills of this World 

Moses also turned his back on “the pleasures of sin”. The Bible does not deny that there is pleasure in sin but is very clear that the pleasure is short lived and does not satisfy. Moses chose rather to “suffer affliction” than be tempted by the pleasures he could have enjoyed (which would have been considerable). 

3. The Things of this World 

The Egyptians were very good at making “things”. If you ever have the opportunity of seeing the goods which were discovered in the tomb of Tutankhamen, you will exclaim like Howard Carted did when he first saw them that they were indeed “wonderful things!” Moses turned his back on all of that as he considered the “reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt” 

The decision that Moses made resulted in him enriching his life, being renowned as the redeemer of his people and a great leader. God will do the same for us if we put Him first in our lives and turn our back on the Throne, the Thrills, and the Things of this world. The words of the Fanny Crosby hymn below come to mind when we ponder Moses and the choices that he made. 

Take the world, but give me Jesus, 

all its joys are but a name; 

but his love abides forever, 

through eternal years the same. 

Refrain: 

Oh, the height and depth of mercy! 

Oh, the length and breadth of love! 

Oh, the fullness of redemption, 

pledge of endless life above! 

 Take the world, but give me Jesus, 

sweetest comfort of my soul; 

with the Saviour watching o'er me, 

I can sing, though thunders roll. [Refrain] 

Take the world but give me Jesus; 

in his cross my trust shall be 

till with clearer, brighter vision 

face to face my Lord I see. [Refrain]