Exodus 6 - Steve Wiggins Daily Devotional

“Then the L_rd spoke to Moses, ‘Go and tell Pharaoh king of Egypt to let the Israelites go from his land.’ But Moses said in the L_rd’s presence: ‘If the Israelites will not listen to me, then how will Pharaoh listen to me, since I am such a poor speaker?’” Exodus 6: 10-12

Often times, listening to sermons, I have heard it taught that Moses had a speech impediment. The reason many give, for this assumption is from Moses’ own admission, “I am such a poor speaker.” In other Bible translations, the verse is interpreted: “I am a man of faltering lips.” It is easy to see why theologians would come to the conclusion that Moses couldn’t speak well. Perhaps, Moses was not a great orator at that point.

In actuality, the verse literally interprets, “I have uncircumcised lips.” Moses’ argument wasn’t that he had a speech impediment. It was that he had a “righteousness” impediment. He didn’t believe he was righteous enough to effectively minister. He didn’t think he was good enough. As I said a couple of days ago, Moses had a confidence problem.

We also know that there was nothing wrong with Moses’ speech, based on Stephen’s testimony before his martyrdom. “So Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was powerful in his speech and actions.” Acts 7: 22

Yet, ultimately, the greatest testimony as to Moses’ assured success came from G_d.

“Therefore, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh so that you may lead my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt.” Exodus 3: 10

Why is it that we must be confident in ourselves before we will place confidence in G_d? Faith works the other way around. We are first called to do the thing we are uncertain of, then, once G_d has accomplished His will through our obedience, we grow in faith.

G_d’s calling is our equipping. That is to say, He supplies all we need to accomplish what He calls us to achieve. We may not have all the supplies we need on the outset, but He will supply them as needed, along the way.

As we continue through the book of Exodus, watch as Moses becomes bolder. His confidence builds as he experiences G_d’s faithfulness. Don’t be afraid of what G_d is calling you to do. Be afraid of not following.

Blessings,
~Steve Wiggins, Associate Leader, Worship Leader
Shuvah Yisrael
Daily Devotional, Friday, March 7, 2014