Excuses of Moses

All of us make excuses. Sometimes we refer to them as reasons when actually they are just excuses. We are all familiar with the schoolboy’s excuse, “my dog ate my homework.” This usually doesn’t do any good; the homework assignment must still be completed. If we really don’t want to do something, one excuse is as good as another. That may have been the way Moses felt when God spoke to him saying, “I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt” (Exo 3:10). 

First, Moses made excuses because he was concerned about his lack of knowledge. He says, “who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?” (Exo 3:11). Moses would be unable to answer the people about the name of God (Exo 3:13). He was troubled about what the Israelites might think of him. But God provides perfect reassurance. Moses was sent by the great “I AM” (Exo 3:14). We have the same comfort today. We are sent by the Lord Jesus who said, “before Abraham was, I AM” (John 8:58). Jesus is God made flesh, the eternal One (John 1:1, 14; Rev 1:11). He made us, knows us, and loves us. We are equipped for the task because He provides the essential teaching we need (2 Peter 1:3). 

Secondly, Moses made excuses because he was fearful about opposition. Often, we hurt a good work by simply playing “what if” – What if something unexpected happens? What if I’m not prepared? What if I fail? Moses says, “suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice” (Exo 4:1). Often as we are making excuses, we are borrowing problems and showing a lack of faith. Again, God provides what Moses needs, a sign to prove his message (Exo 4:2-9). Today we need the understanding that opposition is not something Christians need to fear. The Bible clearly demonstrates to us, being on God’s side brings the victory (Rom 8:31; Heb 13:6; 1 John 4:4). 

Thirdly, Moses made excuses because he was focused on his lack of ability. Even if he knew what to say, he may not say it very well. How could God use someone “slow of speech and slow of tongue” to fulfill His mission (Exo 4:10)? Recognizing our inability is fine, but don’t project that onto God! Our mouth was made by God (Exo 4:11). God’s strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Cor 12:9). Our God is capable of amazing things, even with imperfect tools and servants. 

The long list of excuses from Moses ended with surrender. He asks the Lord to send someone, anyone else (Exo 4:13). Don’t allow negativity to cause you to give up. God can always use us in His service. May we seek to find more opportunities and less excuses.