Forget the Excuses - The Bible Study for Today скачать в хорошем качестве

Forget the Excuses - The Bible Study for Today

Moses, the great prophet through whom God performed a lot of miracles initial reaction to God’s call isn't enthusiastic acceptance; it’s doubt about how the people will perceive him. His first excuse was recorded in the book of Exodus chapter 4 verse 1. "Moses answered, “What if they do not believe me or listen to me and say, ‘The LORD did not appear to you’?” Moses worried about his credibility. He thinks his words alone won't be enough to convince the Israelites, who are oppressed and suffering. God immediately help his unbelieve by providing a threefold sign, turning Moses' ordinary shepherd's staff into a cobra - this demonstrated God's power to transform the ordinary into extraordinary and to command nature, making his hand leprous and then instantly healing it - this sign of leprosy and instant healing was a profound, personal display of God's power over life and death and disease. Despite all these signs, Moses still have an excuse not to be used by God. He said he lacks the skill to speak to the people. In Exodus chapter 4 verse 10, Moses said to the LORD, "Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.” Moses tried to use his perceived weakness—his lack of eloquence or speech impediment—as a reason he cannot fulfill the mission of speaking to Pharaoh and the Israelites. God answers by pointing to Himself as the source of all human ability, directly countering Moses' self-doubt. God said in Exodus chapter 4 verses 11 and 12: The LORD said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” This is the ultimate truth: God, the Creator, is fully aware of all our strengths and weaknesses and calls us in spite of or because of them. When you feel inadequate to serve God, do you focus more on your own limitations or on God's limitless power? Despite God's signs and wonders and His promise to Moses, Moses still has excuses, infact, he pleaded with God to use someone else instead of him. In Exodus chapter 4 verse 13, But Moses said, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.” Moses gave three types of excuses: Doubt of others' belief, Doubt of his own ability, and Simple Reluctance (avoidance). In each case, God did not withdraw the call; He helped him overcome the fears and remind him that He is with him. This is a gentle reminder to you, whatever God had called you for, it could be a friendship with an unpleasant person, it could be a business, a place of work, politics, marriage, ministry, etc. always remember that God's commission always comes with provision, and His power is greater than any of our excuses. Let us pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Moses and for the incredible patience You have with me when I am slow to obey. Forgive me for the excuses I make—for my doubts about myself, my abilities, and Your power in my life. Help me to see Your provision for the task you've placed in my hands, whether it is a gift, a partner, or Your Holy Spirit in me. Strengthen my faith that I may move past my reluctance knowing You are with me always. In Jesus name I have prayed, Amen.