What can we learn from Moses' response to God's command in Exodus 6:12? “But in the LORD’s presence Moses replied, ‘If the Israelites will not listen to me, then how will Pharaoh listen to me, since I am unskilled in speech?’ ” Immediate Context • God has just reiterated His covenant promises (6:2-8). • Moses is commanded again to confront Pharaoh (6:10-11). • Israel’s discouragement has silenced their faith (6:9), and Moses feels the weight of that rejection. What Moses Actually Says • “If the Israelites will not listen to me…”—he points to recent failure. • “…how will Pharaoh listen to me…”—he projects future failure. • “…since I am unskilled in speech” (lit. “uncircumcised lips”)—he blames personal inadequacy. Key Lessons to Draw • God’s call does not depend on human receptivity – Israel’s unbelief did not cancel God’s plan (Romans 3:3-4). – God’s word is effective even when audiences seem hardened. • Past disappointments can cloud present obedience – Moses lets yesterday’s rejection dictate today’s faith. – Philippians 3:13-14 urges pressing on, not looking back. • Feelings of inadequacy are common, but not decisive – Moses: “unskilled in speech” (cf. Exodus 4:10). – Jeremiah: “I do not know how to speak” (Jeremiah 1:6). – Isaiah: “I am a man of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5). – God consistently answers, “I will be with you” (Exodus 4:12; Matthew 28:20). • Faith obeys even when logic argues otherwise – Hebrews 11:27 credits Moses with faith that “persevered as seeing the One who is unseen.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7 calls believers to “walk by faith, not by sight.” • Divine power shines through acknowledged weakness – Moses’ weakness becomes the stage for God’s strength (Exodus 7:6-12). – 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Takeaway Applications • Refuse to let rejection silence obedience—God’s command still stands. • Bring insecurities to the Lord but do not let them stall movement. • Remember that God’s authority, not personal ability, drives the mission. • Expect God to work through weakness so that glory goes to Him alone. |
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