Exodus 4:13

Context

This verse captures a pivotal moment in the narrative of God's call to Moses at the burning bush. Having witnessed miraculous signs and received assurances of divine presence and guidance, Moses has presented a series of objections to leading the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. God has systematically addressed each of his fears – his lack of eloquence ("I am not eloquent"), the people's potential disbelief, and his own perceived inadequacy. In Exodus 4:12, God explicitly promises, "I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say." Yet, despite these profound reassurances, Moses delivers this final, desperate plea, attempting to evade the divine commission.

Key Themes

• Persistent Reluctance: Moses' statement reveals a deep-seated fear and reluctance to accept the monumental task God has laid before him. It's a final, almost defiant, attempt to defer responsibility, suggesting God should send someone else more suitable for the leadership role.
• Human Inadequacy vs. Divine Power: This verse highlights the tension between Moses' perception of his own limitations and God's boundless ability to equip those He calls. Moses is focused on his weakness, while God emphasizes His strength and sovereignty, demonstrating that His power is made perfect in weakness.
• The Burden of Divine Calling: Being called by God often involves stepping far outside one's comfort zone, facing immense challenges, and relying entirely on divine provision. Moses' reaction underscores the overwhelming nature of such a commission and the personal struggle involved.
• God's Patience and Provision: While Moses' repeated objections eventually provoke God's anger (Exodus 4:14), the immediate context shows God's patience in addressing each concern before this ultimate refusal. Even in His anger, God provides a solution by appointing Aaron as Moses' spokesman, demonstrating His commitment to His plan despite human failings.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand [of him whom] thou wilt send" is a deferential yet defiant expression. The address "O my Lord" (Hebrew: Adonai) indicates reverence for God's authority, but the subsequent plea is a direct rejection of God's chosen method and messenger. It's an idiomatic way of saying, "Please send anyone else you choose, just not me." This reveals not just humility but a profound lack of faith in God's empowering presence and His ability to use Moses, despite all the evidence and assurances presented.

Practical Application

Exodus 4:13 offers profound lessons for believers today as we consider our own divine purpose and calling:

• Overcoming Self-Doubt: Like Moses, we often feel inadequate or ill-equipped when faced with God's call or significant challenges. This verse reminds us that God does not call the equipped, but equips the called. Our perceived weaknesses are not obstacles for an all-powerful God, but opportunities for His strength to be displayed.
• Trusting God's Provision: When God gives a command, He also provides the means and the strength to fulfill it. Moses' ultimate acceptance, despite his initial reluctance, led to the miraculous deliverance of Israel. This narrative encourages us to trust that God will provide what is needed for the tasks He assigns.
• Embracing Divine Purpose: While it's natural to feel overwhelmed, this passage encourages us to move past our fears and embrace the unique purpose God has for us. Just as God persisted with Moses, He often persists with us, desiring us to step into the roles He has prepared. Consider how Jeremiah also expressed his inadequacy when called to prophesy, yet God promised to be with him and put His words in his mouth.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God uses ordinary, often reluctant, people to accomplish extraordinary things, often in spite of their own fears and objections, for His glory.