How can we rely on God when feeling inadequate for His calling? Setting the Scene: Moses’ Hesitation • Exodus 4:10 — “Please, Lord,” Moses replied, “I have never been eloquent, either in the past or since You have spoken to Your servant. For I am slow of speech and tongue.” • A real moment in history: Moses, standing before the burning bush, literally voices his sense of inadequacy. • This is not a parable or mere illustration; Scripture records an actual conversation that reveals God’s heart toward hesitant servants. Recognize Natural Inadequacy • God does not deny Moses’ weakness; He allows Moses to name it. • Feeling unable is not rebellion—staying there is. • Our limitations serve as mirrors, showing us how much we truly need the Lord. God’s Sufficiency Answer • Exodus 4:11-12 — “Who gave man his mouth? … Now go; I will help you speak and I will teach you what to say.” • The Lord moves the focus from Moses’ tongue to God’s creative power. • Key truth: The One who calls also equips. Scripture Connections: God Meets Human Weakness • Jeremiah 1:6-9—Jeremiah objects, God touches his mouth. • Judges 6:15-16—Gideon’s “least in my family,” God replies, “I will be with you.” • 2 Corinthians 3:5—“Not that we are competent in ourselves… but our competence comes from God.” • 2 Corinthians 12:9—“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:24—“He who calls you is faithful, and He will surely do it.” • Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Practical Ways to Rely on God When Feeling Inadequate • Shift focus: – From “I can’t” to “He can.” Repeat truth aloud: “The Lord gave mouths; He guides words.” • Seek His presence daily: – Personal time in the Word anchors the heart to His promise; start with the above passages. • Obey the next step: – Moses still had to go to Pharaoh; God’s power met him on the road of obedience. • Embrace God-chosen helpers: – Exodus 4:14-16—Aaron becomes Moses’ mouthpiece. Accept the teammates God sends. • Celebrate small victories: – Each act of faith builds a track record of God’s faithfulness, silencing future doubts. Encouraging Reminders to Carry Forward • God never calls without providing. • Weakness is God’s canvas for displaying strength. • The reliability of Scripture guarantees the reliability of the One who authored it. • Your adequacy rests not in personal skill but in the unchanging sufficiency of the Lord who says, “I will be with you.” |
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