Overcoming Spiritual Hurdles to Serve: Exodus 4

Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads where God’s call on your life was clear, yet you hesitated? Perhaps it's that nudge to serve in a new area or a prompting to reach out to someone you barely know. Instead of jumping in with both feet, you start weighing your inadequacies, listing reasons why it simply can’t be you. If this resonates, you’re in the company of one of the Bible’s greatest leaders: Moses. Today, we'll dive into his story from Exodus chapter 4 to uncover how God transformed his doubts into dynamic obedience.

 "Then Moses answered and said, 'But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose they say, ‘The Lord has not appeared to you.’”

Moses, like many of us, wrestled with unbelief. Even in the presence of a miraculous burning bush, he was caught in a web of doubt, proclaiming, "But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice?" (Exodus 4:1). Moses' reaction mirrors our own inclinations to focus on our limitations rather than God's limitless power.

God’s response was unexpected: He asked Moses, "What is in your hand?" (Exodus 4:2). Just a rod, ordinary by any account. Yet, through it, God demonstrated His power, turning it into a serpent and back into a rod again. This act symbolized God’s ability to overcome external darkness and evil when we rely on His strength.

Similarly, God addressed the internal darkness of Moses’ heart by turning his hand leprous and then restoring it. Here lies the message: God’s power transcends not only external challenges but also the internal battles with sin. His transformative power through Christ's death and resurrection gives us victory over sin's grip.

Even amid these demonstrations of power, Moses clung to his self-will, pleading, "O my Lord, please send by the hand of whomever else you may send" (Exodus 4:13). His reluctance angered God, highlighting a significant truth: calling Jesus “Lord” implies yielding to His authority.

Every “no” we give to God reflects doubts about His wisdom, questions His power, and rejects His lordship. Perhaps you’ve been there, turning down seemingly small acts of obedience—a lunch invitation, a call to mentorship, a chance to serve your church. Moses eventually relented, but at the cost of missing firsthand encounters with God’s transformative power. The lesson here is poignant: though God’s grace accommodates our hesitance, it’s a loss when our way overrides His perfect plan.

Moses also faced the challenge of worry. Preparing to obey meant confronting personal and professional fears—concerns about family, his job, and how his new path would affect existing responsibilities. We often do this, weighing the cost of obedience against personal comfort.

Yet, in conversation with his father-in-law Jethro, Moses found peace and support. It underscores an essential truth: obedience doesn’t absolve you of familial responsibilities but integrates them into God’s overarching plan. Taking his family with him, Moses models how serving God includes fulfilling personal duties simultaneously.

However, the journey nearly ended prematurely when Moses neglected to circumcise his sons. This overlooked commandment was a critical reminder that disobedience has consequences. We can’t partially commit to God while keeping areas of willful defiance unaddressed.

Consider the most comforting aspect of Moses’ story: community. God instructed Aaron to meet Moses in the wilderness, ensuring that Moses didn’t walk alone. This divine orchestration reminds us of the importance of community. In Brooklyn, NYC, or anywhere else, we thrive in a supportive network of believers.

Trying to live in isolation leaves us susceptible to doubt and discouragement. Authentic community offers wisdom, encouragement, and accountability. The scripture supports this in Proverbs: "There is safety in the multitude of counselors" (Proverbs 11:14). Join a church community, seek fellowship, and allow your spiritual journey to be one enriched by others.

The book of Exodus repeats, "Let my people go that they may serve me." This phrase encapsulates God's intricate plan—for liberation, yes, but also for service. Freedom isn't the terminus but the launchpad for a life lived in service to God and others.

Take inventory: Are you wrestling with unbelief or trapped by your own will? Is worry keeping you stuck, or are you serving God in solitude? Remember, "Blessed is the one who endures temptation" (James 1:12). Venture forth. Rejoice in knowing you do not walk alone.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the transformative lessons found in Moses’ journey. As we step out in faith, equipped with what we have, may You remind us of Your power over darkness, both around us and within us. Help us to lay aside self-will and embrace Your perfect plan. Surround us with community, that we might not walk alone. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Absolutely. God asks you to start with what you have, much like He did with Moses. Trust in His power to use you beyond your limitations.

Remember Moses felt that way too. Rely on God’s strength rather than your own abilities.

Often, speaking with community and aligning with God’s Word provides the peace you need.

A supportive community offers wisdom, encouragement, and accountability, crucial for spiritual growth.

Type your new text here.