“When God Gets Your Attention: The Burning Bush Moments in Our Lives”
Scripture Focus:
Exodus 3:3–4 (KJV)
“And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.
And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I.”
🔥 Introduction: Recognizing Divine Interruptions
In Exodus 3, God captures Moses’ attention through a burning bush—a phenomenon that was extraordinary because, though engulfed in flames, the bush was not consumed. This unusual sight prompted Moses to pause and investigate, leading to a life-altering encounter with God. Similarly, in our lives, God may use unexpected events or situations—our own “burning bushes”—to draw us closer and reveal His purposes.
🌿 Identifying the Burning Bushes in Our Lives
Burning bushes in our context may not be literal flames but can manifest as:
- Unforeseen Challenges: Situations that disrupt our routine, prompting reflection.
- Persistent Thoughts or Desires: A recurring sense that there’s more to our purpose.
- Encounters with Others: Conversations or relationships that inspire spiritual growth.
- Moments of Awe in Nature: Experiences that evoke a sense of the divine.
These instances are opportunities for us to “turn aside” and seek God’s voice and direction.
📖 Biblical Cross-References: God’s Methods of Calling
- 1 Samuel 3:10: God calls young Samuel in the night, and upon recognizing God’s voice, Samuel responds, “Speak; for thy servant heareth.”
- Acts 9:3–6: Saul’s journey is interrupted by a heavenly light, leading to his transformation into Paul, the apostle.
- Isaiah 6:1–8: Isaiah experiences a vision of the Lord, leading to his prophetic commission.
In each case, God uses unique circumstances to capture attention and call individuals to His service.
🛑 The Importance of Turning Aside
Moses’ decision to investigate the burning bush was pivotal. It was only after he turned aside that God spoke to him. This teaches us that attentiveness and willingness to explore the unusual can lead to divine encounters. As noted in the commentary from Enduring Word:
“God didn’t speak to Moses until He had Moses’ attention. Often God’s Word doesn’t touch our heart the way that it might because we don’t give it our attention.”
🙌 Application: Responding to God’s Call
- Be Observant: Stay alert to the unusual or persistent occurrences in your life.
- Pause and Reflect: When something captures your attention, take time to seek God’s perspective.
- Listen for God’s Voice: In prayer and meditation, be open to what God may be communicating.
- Respond in Obedience: Like Moses, answer God’s call with readiness, saying, “Here am I.”
Conclusion:
God continues to use “burning bushes” to draw us into deeper relationship and purpose. By being attentive and responsive, we position ourselves to experience His guidance and fulfill the unique calling He has for each of us.
