Holding Up Moses Arms

So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword. - Exodus 17:10-13 NIV

Over the last four months, I have been under a lot of pressure and at times feeling torn in multiple directions. Working a full-time job with a daily commute that is 1 hour each way, going to night school working on my graduate degree, leading a small group of 6th grade boys, leading a couples small group with my wife, and launching a non-profit. At times, I have wondered if I have over-committed and if I would have to drop something, which spinning plate would it be. But God is gracious and has mercy on those who seek him. I have prayed daily for wisdom and perseverance.

One of the greatest answers to prayer has been the four people that have accepted positions on the board of the non-profit. Each one has brought individual giftings and talents. They have embraced the vision and mission and have rolled up their shirt sleeves and begun actively taking part. We began planning a fundraiser to get things off the ground and retained the services of an event coordinator who has also been a tremendous help. The support of my loving wife has been tremendous during stressful times, she calmly reminds me, "If it is supposed to work out, God will make it happen. If it is supposed to fail, it will."

And then volunteers have begun to contact me and say, "how can I help?" Just this week, I have been overwhelmed by the support of extremely creative and talented volunteers willing to contribute their time and talents to the cause.

As I quietly reflect on what all is going on and how much support I am receiving, I cannot help but think of Moses as he stood on the hill watching the battle knowing as long as he held his arms up, the Israelites would win the battle. but when his arms dropped, the Israelites would begin to be defeated. Poor old Moses arms ached and he could barely hold them up any longer. Aaron and Hur saw what was happening and leaped to offer him the assistance. They move a large stone for him to sit on, and they each grabbed an elbow and held his arms up. Over the last two weeks, I can relate. I have felt like I was at the point I could not hold up my arms. And, just when I thought I was at my end, board members and volunteers have said, "Let me take some of the load." And it has been a huge relief.

Have you got an Aaron and Hur in your life?

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