In what ways can we overcome our own hesitations to follow God's will? Setting the Scene Exodus 4:13: “But Moses said, ‘O Lord, please send someone else.’” Moses stood before the burning bush, hearing God’s unmistakable call, yet his immediate reaction was reluctance. The Lord had just promised divine help (4:12), but Moses still begged off. This single verse captures the tension many of us feel when God’s will collides with our fears. Why We Hesitate • Sense of Inadequacy – “Who am I?” (Exodus 3:11) • Fear of Public Failure – “What if they won’t listen?” (Exodus 4:1) • Perceived Lack of Ability – “I am slow of speech” (Exodus 4:10) • Preference for Comfort – Change is costly; Egypt was familiar territory. All four motives remain alive in modern hearts. God’s Answers to Our Excuses 1. His Presence: “I will surely be with you.” (Exodus 3:12) 2. His Power: He turned a staff into a serpent (4:2-4) and a hand leprous and whole (4:6-7). The call comes packaged with divine enablement. 3. His Provision of Partners: Aaron was sent to stand beside Moses (4:14-16). God often brings community to shore up our weaknesses. 4. His Patience—followed by Discipline: “The LORD’s anger burned” (4:14). Hesitation may invite loving but firm correction to move us forward. Practical Ways to Move Past Hesitation • Remember Who Sends You – Meditate on Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 41:10. The Commander-in-Chief is also Father and Friend. • Confess Reluctance Honestly – Moses’ candid plea did not disqualify him; it opened a dialogue. Admit fears in prayer. • Lean on Scripture’s Promises – “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) – “God has not given us a spirit of fear…” (2 Timothy 1:7) • Start with the Next Step, Not the Whole Journey – God told Moses, “Now go!” (Exodus 4:12). Obedience is usually step-by-step. • Seek God-Given Companions – Small groups, mentors, or spouses can fulfill the Aaron role when courage wavers. • Recall Past Faithfulness – David’s logic facing Goliath: “The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion… will deliver me.” (1 Samuel 17:37) Like Moses’ staff, prior victories become present reassurance. • Ask for Wisdom – James 1:5 guarantees guidance for those who seek it. Direction dispels delay. Positive Models of Immediate Obedience • Isaiah: “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8) • Mary: “May it happen to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38) • The Disciples: “They left everything and followed Him.” (Luke 5:11) These examples prove that quick surrender is possible when the heart trusts God’s character. The Stakes of Continued Reluctance • Lost Joy – Jonah’s running led to misery (Jonah 1–2). • Delayed Blessing for Others – Israel’s liberation hinged on Moses’ ‘yes.’ • Risk of Discipline – Hebrews 12:6 reminds us that the Lord chastens those He loves. Obedience is not merely duty; it safeguards our souls and unlocks blessing. Encouragement for Today Because Scripture is true and God’s promises are literal, every command carries the resources required for obedience. The same God who met Moses meets us: ready to overrule weakness, supply words, calm fears, and send helpers. Say yes, and watch the Red Sea moments unfold. |
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