Called by God: Moses
In the movie The Blues Brothers “Joliet Jake” Blues [John Belushi] is released from prison and he and his brother Elwood [Dan Akroyd] visit the orphanage of their youth. The place is broke and has 11 days to pay back taxes or lose everything. The brothers decide to hold a charity concert to save the orphanage. Elwood says, “We’re on a mission from God.”
Background
Moses was a man on a mission from God. Deep in his heart Moses wanted the Hebrews to be free from slavery. He was perfect for the job. He was a Hebrew; the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; educated in Egyptian ways; and familiar with the key leaders.
When Moses turned 40, he tried to fulfill his mission in his own strength. While witnessing an Israelite slave being beaten, Moses stepped in and killed the Egyptian master. He didn’t think anyone had seen the incident, but he was wrong. After Moses was identified as the murderer, he became a fugitive running for his life.
For the next 40 years Moses was a shepherd for his father-in-law in a far-off land. All seemed lost. His dreams were shattered. His heart was broken. But God was at work. As Moses spent hours in solitude, God was slowly transforming him into a man of faith.
One day, at age 80, Moses was tending his father-in-law’s sheep when he saw a bush on fire, but not burning up. When he investigated, God issued Moses his calling. “So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.”
Response
Five times Moses gave excuses for why he couldn’t do the job.
- “I’m a nobody.”
- “I won’t know how to answer their questions.”
- “I won’t have their respect.”
- “I don’t have the gifts or abilities.”
- “I’m not the most qualified.”
Five times God answered Moses with promises, signs or resources.
- I will be with you and you will worship me on this mountain.
- Tell them I am [Yaweh] has sent you to them and they will listen to you.
- Use this staff as a sign: a tamed snake; leprosy healed; and water into blood.
- I will help you speak and teach you what to say.
- Your brother Aaron will help you as your spokesman.
Moses reluctantly obeyed God.
Meaning
- God has prepared you for your unique calling throughout your life.
- You are the perfect person for the job; no one else can do it.
- Wait for God to call you instead of trying to do it on your own.
- God calls you TO Himself first; then He calls you to GO on His behalf.
- God will first mold your character before issuing His calling.
- God will call you in a place, time, and manner you won’t expect.
- Don’t make excuses when you receive your calling.
- God will give you whatever you need to fulfill your calling.
- God will be with you every step of the way.
Summary
God’s calling may seem like more than you can do – and it is if you do it in your own strength. But God promises to be with you and give you everything you need.
Prayer
Lord, Let me be aware Your Presence each day every step of the way. Amen.
© 2013 Designed to Serve®
Dr. Steve Lake is a retired educator with over 30 years experience in the American public schools. He has served in a variety of position, including teacher, elementary school principal, junior high principal, Associate Superintendent, retired from public education as Superintendent of Schools in Lincolnwood, IL. He has his Bachelors, Masters and Doctor of Education degrees from Northern Illinois University. For the past 25 years Steve has attended and been a member of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington and Northfield, IL. At Willow Creek Steve has taught adult classes on spiritual gifts, life purpose, and spiritual disciplines. He has ministered overseas in Angola, Zambia, Honduras, Germany, and Russia. Steve is co-founder of Designed to Serve, a ministry that equips Christians to live out their unique God-given calling. Steve is married and has two adult children who are married.
