When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword. (Exodus 17:12-13, NIV)
As you watch the final holes of a PGA or LPGA telecast, it appears as if two or more golfers are battling against each other to win the tournament. Ultimately, however, the actual competition is about which golfer can beat the course with the lowest score at the end of the week.
Even though golf is an individual sport, the relationship between a player and her caddie plays an important role throughout a tournament. A caddie who adds valuable expertise, speaks encouraging words, and provides a calm presence when the pressure heats up will foster a relationship of trust and gratitude. This caddie becomes a friend and faithful supporter regardless of the outcome of the day.
Today’s scripture comes from the account of when Amalek launched an attack on Israel as they rested in the wilderness near Rephidim. It is also a story of Moses’ leadership and trust in God’s protection and sovereignty. While Joshua led his men against Amalek, Moses stood on a hill overlooking the battle. When his hands stayed in the air, Israel prevailed; but when his hands fell, Amalek had the advantage.
In his own strength, Moses grew tired and weak, but his two friends recognized his need and took action. After moving a stone for him to sit on, Aaron and Hur stood by Moses’ side holding his hands up. They were like two faithful caddies. They noticed. They anticipated. They supported. They offered strength.
I love this picture of community between Moses, Aaron, and Hur. They knew each other well and faithfully journeyed together. God created all of us for connection and community. Like Moses, we need friends who will stand at our side and hold our arms up when we are weak. In return we are to be an Aaron and Hur for our friends as well. This may occur through prayer, actively listening, speaking encouraging words, or being emotionally present when life feels uncomfortable and messy.
For most of my life I believed it was safer to remain emotionally distant from my friends, even my closest ones. Trusting anyone with my heart felt too risky because of betrayal and harm I experienced as a child. Today, after intentionally spending time understanding and speaking truth about my story, I am able to welcome both the blessing and the heartache vulnerability requires. I’m grateful for the Aarons and Hurs in my life who pray for me, who pursue me with kindness and truth, who encourage and challenge me, and who love me for who I am.
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Tracy Hanson
January 29, 2014
Copyright 2014 Links Players International
The Links Daily Devotional appears Monday-Friday at www.linksplayers.com.