Communication

If God appeared to you and told you to do something, how would you respond?  Would you respond with immediate acceptance, or with questions and hesitations?  When God appeared to Moses in Exodus 3, He had the following message: "So now, go.  I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt."  Wow - that is QUITE the project!  Moses responded with hesitation to God's message, and questioned God's decision in choosing him.  As an Egyptian Prince-turned-shepherd, Moses doubted that anyone would listen to him or believe him.  He also doubted that he would be able to effectively deliver the message, as he was not a good speaker.

How often do you feel the same way about things God has called you to do in your every day life?   Whether it is delivering a message to a crowd, or just having a tough conversation with your boss, coworker, family member, or friend, how often do we doubt our abilities?  We may doubt that our boss or coworkers will believe, understand, or agree with our ideas or opinions.  We may worry that our friends or family members will be offended or upset with something we need to discuss with them.  In Exodus 4:1, Moses asked God, "What if they do not believe me or listen to me and say, The Lord did not appear to you?'" The NIV Life Application Study Bible explains: "Moses' reluctance and fear were caused by over-anticipation.  He was worried about how the people might respond to him.  We often build up events in our minds and then panic over what might go wrong.  God does not ask us to go where he has not provided the means to help.  Go where he leads, trusting him to supply courage, confidence, and resources at the right moment."  Instead of worrying about these conversations and events, have faith and know that God is with you at all times - even in these difficult situations.

Since Moses struggled with speaking, he requested of God to "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" (Exodus 4:10 NIV).  Never been eloquent...story of my life!!!  :)  Often times, we feel inadequate in a variety of ways.  I know that I often struggle with effective communication in all of my relationships, even when it's not a difficult situation.  We can have confidence in the same words that God said to Moses: "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" (Exodus 4:11-12 NIV).  What great assurance we can have, knowing that God will equip us to do whatever He asks us to do, despite our weaknesses.  We must trust that He will provide us with the confidence, peace, abilities, and wisdom to do what he has called us to do.  All throughout your daily life, focus on drawing Him close, and letting Him help you with every task.  God bless!!!  :)