2019-3-22

Exodus 4:1-31

Previously in chapter 3, God already identified Himself, gave the message, and asked Moses to deliver and carry out the message. Also He laid out the plan and shared with Moses what would happen.

Now in chapter 4, the conversation on the mountain of God (Horeb) continued with Moses asking about how to have the people listen and believe.
Moses started with the ‘what if’ questions about the authenticity of the message.

Remember that in Chapter 3, God already said that Israelites would listen to him (v18a) and the Pharaoh would ultimately let them go (v20).
Still Moses was simulating other scenarios and assumed the worst.
God patiently helped Moses to practice and strengthen his faith.
Three different miraculous signs were given to Moses, at his disposal to convince people that it was the God of their fathers – the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob that appeared.

Then Moses challenged God with His choice of the deliverer of the message.
Moses considered himself not eloquent and even suggested God to pick someone else.
God challenged Moses back for He is the Creator and would help and teach Moses and Aaron (Yes, God appointed a ‘mouth’ for Moses too).

So off they went, and the Israelites believed and worshiped the Lord.
God was patient with Moses and many of his challenges and resistance and showed His mercy and provision to Moses.
Our God is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Through the work of Jesus, we got the message and became the beneficiary of the message.
Given the Great Commission and the scripture, should we still be asking ‘what if’s or requesting our Lord to send someone else?
Lord, please forgive our little faith and help us to be courageous and diligent in following your commandment.   Amen!           —- Ivy Lin