Exodus 4:10,12 Moses raised another objection to God: “Master, please, I don’t talk well. I’ve never been good with words, neither before nor after you spoke to me. I stutter and stammer.” God said … So, get going. I’ll be right there with you—with your mouth! I’ll be right there to teach you what to say.”

For Moses, this experience was probably too much to handle. He was fixated on his own shortcomings. He knew what he was capable of, and speaking in front of a crowd was definitely not one of his gifts.

I wonder, though, if this wasn’t a smokescreen. Yes, he stuttered, which could certainly be a stumbling block if you had to speak to an important guy like Pharaoh. But maybe he was also thinking of the murder he had committed and was afraid they were going to throw him in jail, or worse, maybe even kill him.

It was probably a combination of both that put the brakes on Moses. He didn’t think he would be able to do it and even suggested that God choose someone else. The problem was that Moses focused on what he could and couldn’t do.

He didn’t see God’s power. God showed him how a stick turned into a snake. He showed him his hand that became leprous and then healthy again. God demonstrated that He has power over all things.

God also told him that He was in control of his vocal cords. He need not worry. God brought in reinforcements by sending his brother Aaron to go with him to help with the speaking. You see, when God calls us, He equips us for the task.

Many times, I couldn’t see past my own shortcomings. How many excuses have you come up with for not doing what God wants you to do because you’re afraid of the consequences? Yes, we’re only human, but we should not hide behind that.

Maybe we need to turn our eyes away from what we are capable of and focus instead on what God can do. If God can turn sticks into snakes and make hands sick and healthy, how much more can He equip you and me for what He is calling us to do?

Maybe it’s time to take the bull by the horns, take God’s hand, and start doing what He asks of us.

Prayer
Father, I know I have many excuses, but for today, I will put them aside. I choose to trust that You will equip and prepare me for what You are calling me to do …

Questions
What excuses am I making to avoid doing what God asks of me?
Do I focus more on my own shortcomings than on God’s strength?
Am I willing to trust God to equip me for my calling?

Do this now
Today, think about something that you know God is asking of you, for which you are still making excuses.
Tell God honestly what you’re afraid or unsure of and ask Him to help you.
Take one small step of obedience today and trust that God will equip you.