Moses had an older brother named Aaron. Aaron was 3 years older than Moses (Exodus 7:7), and together they accomplished great things for God. Moses’ life had been put at risk due to Pharoah’s command to kill all the male Hebrew babies, however, God intervened to protect Moses, and Pharoah’s daughter found him and took him as her own son. Although Moses was raised as a Prince of Egypt, he never stopped considering the Hebrews his brothers. When he witnessed the abuse of a Hebrew at the hands of an Egyptian, Moses killed the abuser. After this he feared for his life and fled into the desert. It is unclear what the relationship was between Aaron and Moses during this time, but when God told Aaron to go see Moses in the wilderness (Exodus 4:27), he went without questioning and was glad to see his brother.

In a time where the eldest brother of the family was held in a place of honor and respect within the family, God turned their roles upside down by placing Moses in a place of leadership and choosing Aaron to be his assistant. God spoke to Moses and Aaron related the messages to the people. This arrangement worked well for both of them. They compensated for each other’s weaknesses, and together accomplished more than either of them could have done alone. In today’s Scripture we see a literal example of how Aaron held up his brother’s hands to ensure the victory of God’s people.

God knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows our capabilities and will place us in positions that are the best fit for us. He will also place people in our lives who we can work cooperatively with to serve God and others as effectively as possible. Let us humbly accept the help God has given us, and be willing to work alongside others so that, we too, can lift each other up when the challenges arise.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for the capabilities you have given me. Thank you also for my weaknesses, as this is where I have the opportunity to watch others use their gifts. Help me always look for ways to lift others up and work cooperatively for your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.  

1.    Exodus 17:11-12 (ESV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.