Good morning!
Text: Exodus 1-4; Psalm 21
One passage I always connect with is the calling of Moses, in particular Exodus 4:10-14. Moses sizes up his own speaking ability and presumes to tell the LORD that He has the wrong guy. The LORD asks him, “Who has made man’s mouth?” and tells Moses to obey and trust that the LORD will indeed tell him what to say. Moses replies:
…he said, “Oh, my Lord, please send someone else.” Then the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses… (Exodus 4:13-14)
Not good. So, here’s why I like this story:
First of all, we are not always good at assessing our own gifts. If you have ever taken one of those spiritual gift inventories where you answer questions about what you think you’re good at – you should be suspicious of the results. Of course, if everyone around you is telling you the same thing the test said, it is probably good.
Second, the way things are is not likely to stay the same when god is on the move in our lives. We should not set our expectations based upon our present or past capabilities. The LORD can give us amazing capabilities if He calls us to serve Him. Finally, our role is to “trust and obey” (as contrasted to doubt and second guess). The LORD calls the ones He wishes to call – and He does not make mistakes. If He is calling you or me to a task, the wisest and best answer is, “Yes, LORD.” And, if we have doubts about our skills or abilities, get ready to be astonished by what our LORD can do through any one of us who is fully surrendered to Him. Oh, and when He calls, kick off those shoes, for you are standing on holy ground.
in Him, Mike