Moses Becomes Israel’s Leader by Divine Appointment

Exodus 3:11–22
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Today’s passage begins with Moses asking God, “Who am I (v. 11)?” This was because he didn’t feel qualified to be the leader of his people. He had just been  a shepherd leading sheep. God tells Moses that he would be with him (v. 12). One with God is a majority.

Then Moses asks the question: “What shall I say (v. 13)?” He knew that he’d be questioned when he went to the people and told them that the God of their fathers had sent him. The people had been accustomed to hearing of many gods and Moses wondered if  they would want to know the true and living God. God told Moses to tell the children of Israel “I am hath sent me unto you (vv. 14-15).” This meant that God always was and always would be caring for His people. We serve the God who is alive, who is present, who is here right now and who gives life and breath to everything that lives (Acts 17:25).

God then told Moses to go to the leaders of the children of Israel and tell them He was going to deliver them (v. 16). Moses was glad when he heard that God would deliver Israel, however, now he was hearing that God would deliver them through him (vv. 17-22) As long as we trust and obey, we can be assured of God’s approval, regardless of people’s response. Just as the Lord knew how Pharaoh would respond to Moses, so He knows exactly what lies ahead of us.

Application

A right concept of God is essential to serving the Lord with power, purpose and proper perspective. It is easy to be asked to do something that I do not feel qualified to do? How should I respond? I must remember that God will never ask me to do something that He will not also equip me to do.