The Need to Know God - Exodus 5

In Exodus 5, Moses stands before Pharaoh and delivers God’s command: “Let my people go.” But instead of immediate freedom, things get worse. Why? Because God isn’t playing checkers—he’s playing chess. Key Themes from the Sermon God Speaks in the Wilderness The Hebrew word for wilderness (midbar) is rooted in the word debar, meaning “to speak.” The wilderness isn’t silence—it’s the place where God speaks. If you’re in a desert season, God may be trying to get your attention. God Plays the Long Game God could act instantly, but often chooses slow formation over quick fixes. He doesn’t just want to show his power—he wants his name to be known. This is chess, not checkers. Things Get Worse Before They Get Better Pharaoh responds by increasing oppression. Scripture reminds us that suffering can be part of God’s refining work: Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5) Present affliction prepares eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17) The Oppression of Busyness Pharaoh increases workload without increasing capacity. Chronic busyness is not freedom—it’s oppression. God’s invitation to the wilderness includes rest, Sabbath, and stillness. Knowing God vs. Knowing About God God desires intimacy, not information. The biblical word yada means to know deeply and relationally. You can know about God and still not truly know Him. Reflection Question What is keeping you from knowing God? Busyness? Frustration with God’s timing? Resistance to the wilderness? God is still playing chess. He is still at work. Seek first the kingdom of God—and trust the long game.