All Christians are called to be obedient to God’s calling; be it to be saved, baptized, tithe, cease a certain sin, or to do something He has laid on one’s heart to do. Too often, excuses are used to wiggle out of what one has been burdened to do.
Moses made such an excuse. He did not want to do what God had called him to do. God called the humble man to lead the two million plus people out of Egypt and their bondage (Ex. 3:10). After being told what the would-be-leader would first do (Ex. 4:2-9), Moses did what many of us do when God calls on us to do something for His Glory. He hid behind an inadequacy he thought would prevent him from doing what God required of him.
Moses reminded God that his speech impediment would prohibit him from doing any speaking. He thought his slow speech would hinder him from speaking to the people of Israel.
“And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.” Ex. 4:10
God’s answer to Moses’ supposed exemption should have silenced Moses and most of our excuses also. God reminded Moses that it was He that had made Moses’ mouth. Certainly, his Creator knew his limitations.
“And the LORD said unto him, Who hath made man’s mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the LORD?” Ex. 4:11
God does not ask anyone to do anything that they cannot do. If God laid on a person’s heart to do something, it can be done! Maybe not on their own; maybe not without God’s help, but if God calls a person to do something, he CAN do it!
This wipes out so many excuses, including:
- “I can’t quit my drinking.” If God convicted you about destroying your body and life with alcohol, or even drugs, He can help you get control over that controlling sin.
- “I cannot read my Bible, pray, and go to church”. You can, if you let God prioritize your time.
- “I can’t live the way a Christian should live because I’ll lose all my friends.” Well, God can give you new friends.
- “I can’t tell the truth all the time, or I’ll get in trouble!” Maybe forced honesty will steer you away from tempting situations in the first place.
- “I can’t tithe because I barely have enough money to live as it is.” God can make a “little” go a long way, if you will trust Him!”
- “I can’t tell others how to be saved because I’m shy; and I don’t know what to say.” Try! God will give you the words; and if you do make mistakes, He will direct you to be more prepared and to even memorize some Bible verses.
Most of our excuses are not sufficient to keep us from obeying God. We can do all God requires of us. He will not require of a Christian something that he is not able to do.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13
Again this morning I have been reminded that God will give me the strength thorough the power of the Holy Ghost to accomplish what he has called me to do…. LORD help me to do it. I am fearful and fret so much, but never the less not my will but thine be done…In Jesus Name Amen
Bro Bill,
My own personal shortcoming is just not listening. One needs practice hearing the Lord and responding. It is a type of positive feedback loop….the more you hear and obey, the more you hear his call.
Do we not doubt that it is God calling? A few nights ago, I was startled from a deep sleep by a voice that called my name once, clear as a bell. My eyes popped open. Was that my supper talking or could it have been God calling me? In that instance, I took no chances, so began to pray right away…I knew not why or what for. Was I right or wrong? Maybe He will let me see. At any rate, I feel like we resist that nudge as Christians.
Regarding what you are writing about, I can absolutely say that God will help you live in victory, if you obey. He broke chains from me that I could not break of my own willpower.
To obey is better than sacrifice to the Lord.
1 Samuel 15:22
And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.