Moses

Moses’ story is one of the most powerful reminders in Scripture that God calls the unlikely. A man with a complicated past, living as a shepherd in obscurity, is suddenly interrupted by the divine. His encounter at the burning bush shows us what it means to pay attention, to hear God’s voice, and to step into calling despite weakness.

An Ordinary Day, an Extraordinary Encounter

Moses was tending the flock in the wilderness when he noticed a bush on fire yet not burning up. It was not unusual for bushes to catch alight in the desert heat, but this one was different. He lingered long enough to see that something extraordinary was happening. It was in this moment of awareness that God spoke.

The lesson is striking: God did not call out immediately. He waited until Moses turned aside, until he paid attention. Only then did God reveal Himself and speak. Ordinary surroundings became holy ground when Moses leaned in with curiosity.

Four Questions and Four Answers

The conversation that followed between Moses and God holds timeless truth. Moses brought his doubts, questions, and excuses. God responded with reassurance, provision, and presence.

1. Who am I?
Moses doubted his worth, rehearsing his failures and inadequacies. God’s reply was not to flatter or correct him but to remind him of what truly mattered: “I will be with you.” God’s presence was the answer to Moses’ insecurity.

2. What if they don’t listen?
Moses feared rejection and questioned his credibility. God pointed to what was already in his hand—the staff that would become a sign of His power. God equips His people with what they already carry, if they will trust Him.

3. I don’t speak well.
Moses felt unqualified, slow of speech and inadequate. God replied, “Who gave man his mouth?… I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” Strength would not come from natural ability but from divine help.

4. Please send someone else.
At last, Moses simply resisted. But God made it clear: there was no plan B. He chose Moses, and though others like Aaron would support him, the call rested on him. God’s choice carried weight and privilege.

Everything Is Spiritual

This moment also reveals a deeper truth: there is no divide between the spiritual and the ordinary. Scripture never separates the sacred from the everyday. The bush was not holy until God revealed Himself in it—and Moses recognised it. In the same way, God can speak in every part of life, if we are willing to pause and pay attention.

Meals, conversations, work, rest, even challenges—all become spiritual when God is present in them. Like Moses, the invitation is to take notice, to turn aside, and to listen.

God’s Presence Is Enough

Moses’ journey reminds us that God is not looking for the most skilled or confident. He looks for those willing to say yes. In fact, feelings of inadequacy can be a qualification in themselves, because they create space for God’s strength. Scripture says, “God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise… the weak things to shame the strong” (1 Corinthians 1:27).

Unworthiness mixed with willingness makes room for God’s presence. The burning bush did not burn out, and neither does God’s call. Even if we feel we have missed our moment, God’s invitation still stands.

Conclusion

Moses’ story is a call to awareness, obedience, and trust. God is always at work, placing burning bush moments in our lives—ordinary situations infused with extraordinary potential. The challenge is to pause long enough to notice, to be curious enough to draw near, and to be bold enough to say yes.

God’s response to every fear remains the same: “I will be with you.”