As I go through life, I find it easy to slip into a mindset of assuming that I am the only follower of Christ that struggles and makes mistakes. Now, I obviously know this to be false, but the feelings of isolation, shame, and disappointment can often creep in and take residence within my mind and heart. I believe it is why I am so encouraged when reading through the Bible and seeing the struggle and faults of the people that God uses to advance His redemption plan. Paul gives this exact message in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, where he says, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” This last week in my daily study I have been reading through Exodus. Moses has encouraged and challenged me. He fits the mold that Paul presents, and in Moses’s weakness, God freed His nation from captivity.
In Exodus 3 and 4, God speaks to Moses through the burning bush. God specifically comes to Moses and sends him to lead the Israelites from captivity. Moses does not respond with confidence or gratitude, or even willingness to obey God. Instead, Moses gives God 5 excuses. 5 reasons he cannot do what God has commanded Him to do. 5 “but God…” statements. But God, I cannot go before Pharaoh or lead the people of Israel. But God, I do not know enough about you to lead. But God, no one will believe me or listen to me. But God, I do not speak well. But God, send someone else. Moses doubts God, he argues with God, and he flat out asks God to change His plan! Yet still, God remains faithful to Moses. God answers every single one of Moses’s “but God…” statements. God can handle our doubts and fears if we let Him. Spoiler alert: Moses follows God’s plan and successfully leads the Israelites out of Egypt through God’s power.
When I read this story, I am often challenged. Where am I saying “but God…” in my life? Where am I using faults, fears, or even my own preferences as an excuse to ignore God’s commands? Am I holding back in my ministry? Am I holding back in my relationships? Am I holding back in my own spiritual disciplines and spiritual walk? We can be comforted by recognizing that even Moses, a great leader for God, struggled with doubts and excuses, but we must also be challenged to grow past our “but God…” moments so that God can work and move in and through us. Moses’s story is a great reminder to reflect on our lives and look for our “but God..” excuses. Often, the pressing needs in front of us or the brutal failures of our past seem to give our doubts validity, but like Paul said in 2 Corinthians 12, God’s strength is not seen in our strength; it is seen when He moves despite our weakness.
Serving Together,
Bro. Tyler