God’s Call to Moses: An Invitation Beyond Weakness
When Moses stood before the burning bush, the weight of God’s call seemed too great to bear. Exodus 4:10-12 reveals a vulnerable moment where Moses, overwhelmed by his inadequacies, tried to disqualify himself from the divine mission. Yet, this passage also highlights the profound truth of God’s grace and power working through human weakness.
Let’s take a deeper journey through the layers of this narrative and the spiritual lessons it holds for us today.
1. God Sees What We Cannot See in Ourselves
Moses began his dialogue with God by highlighting his deficiencies: “O my Lord, I am not eloquent… I am slow of speech and slow of tongue” (Exodus 4:10). Moses looked at himself through the lens of his limitations, but God saw something far greater—potential and purpose.
This is a truth we often forget: God sees beyond our flaws. When Samuel visited Jesse’s house to anoint the next king of Israel, he initially focused on Eliab, who appeared strong and capable. But God reminded Samuel, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). David, a shepherd boy, was God’s chosen one, not because of his stature but because of his heart and purpose.
In the same way, God chooses us based on His perfect will and divine purpose. He sees in us what no one else, not even we ourselves, can see. If God has chosen you, He has a plan that far exceeds your understanding.
2. When God Chooses, It’s for a Bigger Purpose
God never calls us to something small or insignificant. His call on Moses’ life was not just to free a nation but to demonstrate His power, establish His covenant, and bring His people into relationship with Him.
Similarly, God’s call on your life is for a bigger purpose than you might realize. Ephesians 3:20 declares, “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.”
Even when we feel unprepared or unworthy, God’s choice comes with His empowerment. Moses wasn’t chosen because of his qualifications; he was chosen because of God’s purpose.
3. Disqualifying Ourselves vs. Aborting the Mission
One critical aspect of this passage is how Moses handled his insecurities. He expressed doubt about his ability to speak and lead but never outright refused God’s mission. This distinction is vital: Moses was disqualifying himself, but he wasn’t abandoning the mission.
In contrast, Jonah provides an example of someone who attempted to abort God’s mission entirely. When Jonah fled from God’s command to go to Nineveh, he faced severe consequences. Jonah’s rebellion came from a hardened heart, whereas Moses’ hesitation came from self-doubt.
God is patient with our doubts, but disobedience has consequences. Hebrews 3:15 warns us, “Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” God desires a willing spirit, even when we feel inadequate.
4. The Importance of Open Dialogue with God
One beautiful aspect of Moses’ interaction with God is the open and honest dialogue. Moses didn’t hide his fears or pretend to be strong. He laid his insecurities before God, and God responded with reassurance: “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD?” (Exodus 4:11).
God invites us to bring our doubts, fears, and questions to Him. He is not offended by our honesty; instead, He uses it as an opportunity to strengthen our faith. Psalm 62:8 encourages us, “Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.”
When we tell God what we think and feel, we create space for His comfort and guidance.
5. God’s Power Through Weakness
God’s response to Moses’ objection is a reminder of His sovereignty: “Now therefore, go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall say” (Exodus 4:12). This assurance reveals a crucial truth—God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Throughout Scripture, we see God working through the weak and unqualified to accomplish great things:
• Gideon, who saw himself as the least in his family, was called a mighty man of valor (Judges 6:12).
• Jeremiah, a young prophet, was reassured that God would give him the words to speak (Jeremiah 1:7-9).
• Paul, despite his thorn in the flesh, declared, “When I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).
God specializes in using the unqualified to fulfill His purposes. When we surrender our weaknesses to Him, we allow His power to work through us.
6. The Role of Divine Patience and Provision
God’s patience with Moses is a testament to His grace. Even when Moses continued to express doubt, God provided Aaron as a spokesperson: “Is not Aaron the Levite your brother? I know that he can speak well… He shall be your spokesman to the people” (Exodus 4:14-16).
God’s provision ensures that His plans are not hindered by our limitations. Just as He provided Aaron for Moses, He provides resources, people, and circumstances to support us in fulfilling His mission. Philippians 4:19 assures us, “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
7. Lessons for Today: Trust and Obedience
Moses’ journey teaches us several key lessons:
• Trust in God’s ability, not your own. If God calls you, He will equip you.
• Be honest with God. He welcomes your doubts and provides reassurance.
• Obey even when you feel unqualified. Your obedience opens the door for God’s power to work through you.
• Remember the bigger purpose. God’s call on your life is part of His grand plan to reveal His glory and bring others to Him.
Conclusion: Embrace the Call
Moses’ story is a powerful reminder that God’s call is not dependent on our abilities but on His power and purpose. Like Moses, we may feel slow of speech or unworthy, but God’s assurance remains: “I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall say.”
When God calls, He equips. Trust in His sovereignty, rely on His grace, and step forward in obedience. Whether you feel prepared or not, remember this truth: God’s strength is made perfect in your weakness. You are chosen for a greater purpose—embrace the call, and watch God work through you.