Mathematicians tell us the the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. But life is seldom that straight forward. Often, the route to salvation involves detours and tough mountain passes.
Pharaoh's response to Moses' request is not just "no", but to make life even harder for the Hebrews. He promptly increases the brick quota, while at the same time reduces the availability of raw materials. The result is an impossible situation of the slaves - a situation guaranteeing failure.
Not surprisingly, the foremen got an earful from the Pharaoh when they complained and tried to reason with the impossible demands. They came back frustrated, broke the bad news to the Hebrews, and then swore at Moses and Aaron.
Moses was the one who finally said it to God. "Thanks for your help. What kind of rescue is this?"
Write
Think about your faith story: what have been tough parts of your journey of salvation.
Presently, where in your life - what relationships or circumstances, are you finding hard? What kind of questions are you asking God?
Who do you know is complaining and confused about where God is taking them?
Pray
What
is God saying to you today? What's Good News to you?
Talk to God about the hard parts of your faith journey. Thank God for the way he sticks with you and listens to your cursing and complaints.
Pray about the things in your life you are finding hard presently. Ask God for the help you need, the reassureance of his presence, and the trust to keep moving forward.
Pray for your friend who is complaining and confused. Ask God how you can come along them to support them.
Pray for an experience of God's love, grace and mercy in the way he sticks with you and helps you navigate the tough going parts, and the ways using these challenges to re-create you.