You can’t study leadership in the context of the Bible and not fall on the story of Moses. From his call until his death, he is leadership wisdom embodied. What he did right provides powerful wisdom to young leaders and experienced leaders alike. What he did wrong helps us understand our own mess ups and begs us not to repeat them.
I love the story of the call of Moses.
When God called Moses, he didn’t seem like a good candidate to lead the nation God had called out and separated for Himself. However, God in all his wisdom chooses Moses. As he’s telling Moses about the call that He wants him to complete, Moses begins to make excuses. During this quick exchange between God and Moses, we can see 3 things that God says He’ll do for Moses. I think He’s still telling us leaders today, “I’ll take care of these, you just go.”
Then the LORD asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.” (Exodus 4:11-12 NLT)
Our place is His
Where you are, he put you. You can trust that God cares more for your people, your church, and your organization than you ever have. He’s called you to that specific place for this specific time because He knew you were the person for it.
Don’t panic. Don’t run. Don’t doubt that He’s with you.
Giftedness is His idea
God knows that we can’t on our own. He also knows that we have no valuable skills that He hasn’t given us. He’s telling Moses, “Who made you? Who gifted you? Me!” He’s telling us the same thing.
Should we try to sharpen and fine tune the gifts He’s entrusted us with? Definitely. Our gifts, though, are His and His responsibility. One of the things we’re often guilty of is seeing someone else use their gifts and wishing we had it. What we’re doing is essentially saying, “God, you made a mistake.” Don’t wish someone else’s gifts on yourself.
Believe He’s gifted you and use what He’s given you for Him.
Empowerment is on His shoulders
Moses is essentially making the argument to God and saying, “I can’t do it.” God in response is basically saying, “I know.” The place you are right now and the overwhelming feelings you have or even the celebratory feelings you have, God did it and will continue to use and empower you.
Don’t say, “I can’t.” God knows you can’t, that’s why empowerment is on His shoulders. He’s not only going to gift you to do it, but He’s gonna empower you and give you the strength and know how also.
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