Exodus 6

“Then the Lord spoke to Moses, ‘Go and tell Pharaoh king of Egypt to let the Israelites go from his land.’ But Moses said in the Lord’s presence: ‘If the Israelites will not listen to me, then how will Pharaoh listen to me, since I am such a poor speaker?’”  Exodus 6: 10-12 (HCSB)

Often, listening to sermons, I have heard it taught that Moses had a speech impediment. The reason many give for this assumption is from Moses’ own admission, “I am such a poor speaker.” In other Bible translations, the verse is interpreted as “I am a man of faltering lips.” It is easy to see why theologians conclude that Moses couldn’t speak well. Perhaps Moses was not a great orator at that point.

In actuality, the verse literally interprets, “I have uncircumcised lips.” Moses’ argument wasn’t that he had a speech impediment. It was that he had a “righteousness” impediment. He didn’t believe he was righteous enough to minister effectively. He didn’t think he was good enough. As I have said before, Moses had a confidence problem.

We also know that there was nothing wrong with Moses’ speech, based on Stephen’s testimony before his martyrdom.

“So Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in his speech and actions.” Acts 7: 22 (HCSB)

Yet, ultimately, the greatest testimony of Moses’ assured success came from God.

“Therefore, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh so that you may lead my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt.” Exodus 3:10 (HCSB)

Why must we be confident in ourselves before placing confidence in God? Faith works the other way around. We are first called to do the thing we are uncertain of. Then, once God has accomplished His will through our obedience, we grow in faith.

God’s calling is our equipping. He gives us all we need to accomplish what He calls us to achieve. We may not have all the supplies we need at the outset, but He will provide them as needed along the way.

As we continue through the book of Exodus, watch as Moses becomes bolder. His confidence builds as he experiences God’s faithfulness. Don’t be afraid of what God is calling you to do. Be afraid of not following.