We've stepped out in faith. We've done what God has asked. The results have been unexpected to say the least and we are confused, hurt, angry and questioning our calling. Why Lord?
I think whenever God calls us to something, we assume this simple equation: God's call + our obedience = ease. It only makes sense that if we say "yes", God will bless. In Moses we see not only a reluctant leader who quite unwillingly relents, but a man, who after the first set-back, wants to step away.
There's a familiar expression, "when the going gets tough, the tough get going". Do they really? I believe we'd like to say it's true, but far too often when the going gets tough, the "tough" just go. Many lack the commitment to anything. As soon as we meet resistance or recession, we're out of there. The resolve we had when initially called turns to doubts. "Did God really say?" ushers in questions that weaken our obedience.
Sadly, few are trained with any follow-thru. The paper route is discontinued when interest wanes. The music lessons stopped because practice isn't fun. It's too hot on the soccer field. It's too cold in the hockey arena. These childhood patterns become adult lifestyles. (After all, who do you think is allowing the above to happen.)
When God calls us to follow Him, let's face it, it's hard. Most often the ask is far beyond our ability. All our inadequacies rise to the surface providing reasons why we can't possibly affirmatively reply. Once God guides us through that conversation as He did Moses, assuring us of His strength not ours, we then struggle when opposition arises. Maybe you've experienced more than one set-back. There's been such a line-up of rejections that failure is threatening. Are these roadblocks the enemy we need to resist, or is it God's hand at work? Is each detour and disappointment a tool for deepening our trust in the Lord, or has His favour been removed? Is a door closing, or is God opening our hearts to increasing faith? In Moses' situation, God answers with the outcome. In seven "I will" statements (Ex 6:6-8), the plan is very clear. We don't always have the benefit of knowing such a plain path.
If you're in a place like Moses, and you feel like God has "done nothing" after you've risked everything, don't be discouraged. Seasons of struggle are real. Critiques and comments are cutting. Attacks can appear unending. Everyone else is seemingly flourishing while your soul is shriveling. Negative pressure is weighing heavy. Each strategy results in stagnation. Stop! Hold on to this: It is not the end of the story! Listen to the very next verse in scripture. Exodus chapter 6, verse 1, "Then the LORD told Moses, 'Now you will see what I will do..."
Don't quit! God is not "doing nothing"! He is always at work! Look up and see what He is about to do! Your "now" is on the way!
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