the ten: an intermission and realization that God is able (part 12)

Moses said to the LORD, "O 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." The LORD said to him, "Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, the LORD ? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say." But Moses said, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it." (Exodus 4:10-13)

This morning, I woke up very early with my to do list circling around in my mind... kind of like a plane waiting for clearance to land at the airport. You see, my week is turning out to be very busy on both a personal and professional level. So, to begin my day off right, I decided to spend time alone with God and start praying. I have learned that life works better when I spend quiet time alone conversing with my Heavenly Father before proceeding on with the many to do's of the day.

Anyway, as I laid in bed praying, I found myself mentally stumbling over my words while addressing my King. In frustration, I would stop and apologize to God because I was not articulating my prayers well. My thoughts were all over the room and I was feeling defeated. Sure, I am a busy mamba-jamba. That is not unusual. But today was different. I could not seem to find stillness or focus... nor could I enjoy the time alone with my Creator because I was so disappointed in my inability to communicate.

Immediately the verses (above) from Exodus came to mind and I thought, "But Lord, that is not my issue!?? I am not worried about speaking on Your behalf. I'm not shy or nervous about presenting you to anyone." But indeed, that was my issue... and God knew it.

For in the midst of my writing this blog series, I had just today started to give in to the subtle, internal questioning of the enemy. Questioning of my own validity and competence to share God's life-giving instructions. Questioning of my understanding about this topic against those who are likely more knowledgeable than I. Those who hold higher degrees and have extensive understanding of theology. Those who have attended seminary. Those who are biblical greats... leaders of our time. You know, those who impress the masses with their great wisdom coupled with a dedicated team of experts and advisers of holy scripture. No, today I was not overwhelmed by my many to do's, I was demotivated and struggling because I was stressing over my capacity to teach effectively. And it was affecting my prayer life! I had fallen into Satan's trap of comparing my own abilities to a standard that God is not at all concerned with.

I can totally relate to Moses in these passages. He is not eloquent, and He knows it. He is nobody in the economy of Biblical theologians, and He knows it. He is a sinner. A murderer. A coward. A loser. He'd rather beg God to send someone else to do the job... someone more equipped. Someone more "worthy". Sigh. Yep, I was right there with Moses this morning.

However, when I thought about it more, God was gracious to remind me that later on in scripture it was Moses who met God in person to receive these commandments. Wow! It was Moses who had overcome many obstacles and trials that were instrumental to free God's people from slavery. How cool! It was Moses who would now present a new way of living to the Israelites... to share with them a perfect plan that would keep them free from sin and shame. A criteria that would show every man, woman and child how to flourish and exist with the hope of an eternal promised land where they would be blessed with the presence of their Redeemer. What an honor! Finally, it was Moses who later stood in full support of our Messiah at the transfiguration. What a u-turn from, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it."

Today, I am grateful that God reminded me of this truth: When Moses presented "the ten" to Israel for the first time (and every time thereafter), he did so with the full authority of God behind him. God's commands are perfect and for our benefit. They are meant to be shared and followed. They are life-promoting and healthy. As his children, we must keep His promises close to our heart and freely share them anytime and everywhere God calls us to do so. Sure, none of us may feel capable, worthy or able to speak... but God is not concerned with that. God is able.

Ladies, this morning God reminded me that we each have mouths to speak, ears to hear, eyes to see all that God has lovingly provided and promised for His people. Let us not be handicapped by the enemy's lies and give into the belief that we are sinfully crippled and lacking persuasiveness or poise. Rather, let's be bold and deliberate to share our Savior's truths without hesitation or reluctance. God is able!

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)

Hurray! Thank you, Lord! From your simple instruction today, I will now stand taller for YOU. I am more determined than ever to press on with this race and share Jesus as the only solution for our lost and dying world. Join me, ladies. Let us share our freedom from slavery and defeat. We have so much hope in our Lord. He is able to make us more than we are when we stop procrastinating and rotting in self disappointment pertaining to our own abilities. Instead, let's stand up on behalf of His authority and share share share His grace!!! Glory will always be given when we speak His words and when we promote His truths. Yes, God is able. This morning, I praise Him for the much-needed reminder!

Blessings!

Victoria

© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson