Devotional: Embracing God’s Call Despite Our Excuses

Lesallan – September 3, 2024

Devotional: Embracing God’s Call Despite Our Excuses

In the wilderness of Midian, Moses, a man fleeing from Pharaoh, and perhaps from his past, has a life-changing encounter with Yahweh. While tending his flock, Moses is summoned to a divine mission of monumental importance: to confront Pharaoh, the most powerful ruler of his time, and to deliver the Israelites from their oppression (Exodus 3:10-14, ESV). This formidable task elicits a series of excuses from Moses, each indicative of his profound fears and insecurities.

Moses initially expresses feelings of inadequacy as he questions, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?” (Exodus 3:11, ESV). He perceives himself as unworthy and incapable of such a significant responsibility. In response, God provides a profound reassurance by affirming, “But I will be with you” (Exodus 3:12, ESV). This powerful reminder of God’s presence emphasizes that we are never alone in fulfilling our divine callings.

Moses was concerned about his authority and credibility, questioning what he should say to the Israelites when asked about God’s name. In response, God revealed His name as “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14, ESV), confirming His eternal and self-existent nature. This revelation assured Moses of the authority he needed to communicate with the Israelites.

Moses voiced his doubts about being believed, saying, “But behold, they will not believe me or listen to my voice” (Exodus 4:1, ESV). In response, God gave Moses miraculous signs, such as turning his staff into a serpent and healing his leprous hand (Exodus 4:2-9). These signs were miracles, a divine validation of Moses’ mission, and God’s unwavering support.

Notwithstanding these assurances, Moses continues to feel inadequate, pointing out his lack of eloquence: “Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent… I am slow of speech and of tongue” (Exodus 4:10, ESV). God reminds Moses that He is the creator of all abilities: “Who has made man’s mouth? … Is it not I, the Lord?” (Exodus 4:11, ESV). God promises to aid Moses in speaking and teach him what to say (Exodus 4:12, ESV).

After expressing doubt and reluctance, Moses implores God to send someone else by saying, “Oh, my Lord, please send someone else” (Exodus 4:13, ESV). Despite God’s initial displeasure, He resolves the issue by appointing Moses’ brother, Aaron, to speak on his behalf (Exodus 4:14-17, ESV). This provision highlights God’s enduring patience and His readiness to aid us, especially during moments of self-doubt, making the readers feel understood and supported.

Reflecting on these rationales, it becomes clear that Moses’ challenges are inherently human. Many of us have experienced the feeling of inadequacy, self-doubt, or the desire for someone else to undertake difficult tasks. However, God’s responses to Moses serve as a reminder that He provides the necessary tools and aid to those He summons. Have you ever sensed a divine calling to undertake something momentous but hesitated due to similar apprehensions? Always remember, just as God was by Moses’ side, He is also with you, prepared to lead and strengthen you.

I pray this devotional encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences of feeling unworthy, doubting their abilities, or hesitating when called to significant tasks. It reminds them that, just as God was with Moses, He is with them, ready to guide and empower them. This reiteration of God’s readiness to aid should instill a sense of hope and encouragement in the readers.

Blessings,

Lesallan

References:

Book of Exodus – ESV – Bible Study Tools. (2023). Bible Study Tools.

https://www.biblestudytools.com/esv/exodus