With You Always

Soon after the death of Joseph and his brothers, the descendants of
Israel were forced into Egyptian slavery. For several hundred years,
the Egyptians greatly oppressed the Israelites: "But the more they were
oppressed, the more they multiplied and spread; so the Egyptians came to
dread the Israelites and worked them ruthlessly" (Exodus 1:12-13).

God heard the prayers of the Israelites and answered by calling Moses to
lead the people to freedom: "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to
bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt" (Exodus 3:10). Moses felt
inadequate to answer God's call and began to tell God that maybe He had
chosen the wrong person for this leadership position; "Who am I, that I
should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" (Exodus 3:11).

At this point, God could have given Moses a motivational speech aimed at
building up his self confidence. He could have told Moses of his great
potential, and encouraged him to think positively and be more assertive.
But Moses' lack of "self" confidence actually made him ideal for this
task. Moses would need to trust God, not his own understanding, with
absolutely every step he took. But there was one truth Moses still
needed to receive.

Exodus 3:12
"And God said, 'I will be with you.'"

The one thing Moses needed to fully believe in his heart was that he was
not alone - he needed to truly understand that God would always be at his side.

When Jesus spoke His final commands, He said, "Go and make disciples of
all nations" (Matthew 28:19). Jesus didn't need to remind His followers
how to present the gospel message or how to fight discouragement - He
simply said, "And surely I am with you always" (Matthew 28:20).

When we answer God's call, we can be assured we have (or will be
provided) adequate ability. God NEVER calls without also providing the
tools to accomplish everything in His plan. But even with all the
tools, we're often filled with doubts and fears - uncertain of our next
step. And yet, we WILL step. We will step along the path of the world
or we will trust God and step out in faith.

Today, as with every day, we must make a choice. As we choose which way
to step, let's remember our Heavenly Father is by our side to love us
and guide us along His path. Let's remember He has called, equipped,
and given us His promise: "I will be with you always!"

Have a Great Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries