Exodus 4:20

And Moses took his wife and his sons, and set them upon an ass, and he returned to the land of Egypt: and Moses took the rod of God in his hand.

Exodus 4:20 (KJV)

Context

The book of Exodus records the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Moses, called by God, encounters a burning bush on Mount Horeb (Sinai), where God commissions him to go to Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. In this verse, Moses begins his journey back to Egypt in direct response to that command.

Meaning

Moses takes his wife, Zipporah, and their sons, Gershom and Eliezer, and sets them upon an ass for the journey. This action shows that his divine calling affected his whole household; he did not go alone. The donkey was a common and respectable mode of travel in that region, often ridden by persons of rank, so this detail is not a sign of shame but of ordinary, practical obedience.

The central symbol is “the rod of God” which Moses takes in his hand. This rod, once a shepherd’s staff, becomes the instrument through which God will display His power in Egypt. It is the same rod that will later turn into a serpent before Pharaoh and part the Red Sea. By carrying it, Moses acknowledges that the power belongs to God, not to himself.

Biblical connections

Throughout the Exodus narrative, the rod serves as a visible sign of God’s presence and provision. It reminds Moses and the Israelites of their reliance on God’s supernatural intervention. The rod is not magical; it is an appointed means through which God acts, showing that He works through ordinary objects and obedient servants.

Application

This verse teaches several lessons. First, it emphasizes the importance of family in the journey of faith. Moses brings his wife and children, showing that obedience to God includes our loved ones. We should value and include our families in our callings, seeking unity and shared purpose.

Second, it underscores humility and dependence on God’s power. Moses, though chosen for a great task, does not rely on his own abilities but takes “the rod of God,” acknowledging that the mission will be accomplished through God’s strength. This encourages us to approach our own callings with humility, recognizing that God equips and empowers us.

Third, “the rod of God” reminds us of God’s faithfulness and miraculous intervention. It encourages us to trust in His provision and guidance, knowing that He can perform extraordinary works through us if we remain obedient and faithful to His calling.

Reflection

Moses’ obedience was prompt and complete. He did not delay or argue after receiving God’s command. His example challenges us to respond to God’s direction with readiness, taking our families along and carrying the means God provides. The rod in his hand was a tangible reminder that the power belongs to God, and so should our lives be a visible sign of His authority and grace.