How can we identify our "staff" that God wants to use today? Opening the Verse “Then the LORD asked him, ‘What is that in your hand?’ ‘A staff,’ he replied.” (Exodus 4:2) Seeing the Pattern: God Uses What We Already Have • God directs Moses’ attention to something ordinary and familiar. • The staff becomes a visible instrument of divine power (Exodus 4:3–4; 7:8–12). • Throughout Scripture, the Lord repeatedly transforms common objects when surrendered to Him (cf. 2 Kings 4:2; John 6:9). Recognizing Our Modern-Day Staffs Identify what is “in your hand” right now: • Natural abilities—skills, talents, aptitudes you practice daily. • Life experiences—testimonies of deliverance, lessons from trials, specialized knowledge. • Resources—finances, tools, technology, property, influence. • Relationships—family roles, friendships, vocational networks. • Spiritual gifts—those the Holy Spirit distributes “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Position and platform—jobs, volunteer roles, social media reach, community standing. Testing the Staff: Confirming God’s Call • Alignment with Scripture—God never asks us to wield a gift contrary to His Word (Psalm 119:105). • Wise counsel—trusted believers can help verify calling (Proverbs 15:22). • Providential opportunities—open doors and divine appointments often spotlight the staff (Revelation 3:8). • Inner witness of the Spirit—peace and conviction accompany genuine guidance (Romans 8:16). • Early fruit—initial steps of obedience produce confirmation through changed lives (Matthew 7:17). Stepping Out in Faith with the Staff • Surrender—place every ability, possession, and credential at Christ’s disposal. • Obedience—act promptly when the Spirit nudges, even in small tasks. • Perseverance—expect resistance, yet keep lifting the staff like Moses before the Red Sea (Exodus 14:16). • Humility—remember the power is God’s, not the staff’s (2 Corinthians 4:7). • Availability—stay ready; the same staff was used repeatedly throughout Moses’ life. Scriptures that Echo the Principle • Judges 3:31—Shamgar’s oxgoad. • 1 Samuel 17:40—David’s sling and stones. • 2 Kings 4:2—Elisha asks the widow, “What do you have in the house?” • John 6:9—A boy’s five loaves and two fish. • 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” Practical Next Steps • List the gifts, resources, and opportunities God has already placed in your life. • Dedicate each item to the Lord, inviting Him to repurpose it for His glory. • Take one concrete action this week that employs your “staff” in service to someone else. |
    |