Lift Up Your EyesSample

Turn Aside and Listen

When God nudges your attention, do you pause or rush on?

Moses was doing ordinary work when something unusual caught his eye. He saw a bush on fire, but it did not burn up. He said, “I will go over and see this strange sight” (Exodus 3:3, NIV). That small decision changed everything. Sometimes God uses curiosity to slow us down and draw us closer. As Moses moved toward the bush, God called his name, “Moses! Moses!” and told him to take off his sandals because he was on holy ground (Exodus 3:4 to 5, NIV).

Before God talked about Moses’ assignment, He shared His heart. He said He had seen the misery of His people, heard their cries, and was concerned about their suffering. Then He said, “So I have come down to rescue them” (Exodus 3:7 to 8, NIV). A simple way to say Exodus 3:7 to 8 is this: God sees, God hears, God cares, and God comes close to save. That is who He is.

This moment also told Moses who he was. God introduced Himself as “the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob” (Exodus 3:6, NIV). Moses’ story was part of a bigger story God had been writing for generations. You have that same gift in Christ. The Bible says we are members of God’s household and part of His family plan (Ephesians 2:19, NIV). Your life is not random. God is with you and knows your name.

What would it look like to turn aside today? It might be as simple as ten quiet minutes with your Bible open. It might be stopping to help a neighbor or to pray at your desk. When you make space for God, you will find He already made space for you. The ground you stand on becomes holy because He is present.

Prayer: Lord, help me slow down and notice You. Speak my name and steady my heart. Show me how You see the people around me, and teach me to listen. Amen.