Name It and Claim It

Today, we will look into Moses’ second question: “What should I say to them if they ask me your name?” This question, like his first, is rooted in doubt but also sprinkled with a dash of people-pleasing, which…well, can we blame him?

Imagine you’re Moses for a moment. You’ve been tasked with the daunting responsibility of delivering the Israelites and leading them out of Egypt. Not only is God asking you to go back to the place you ran away from but also to convince an entire nation that you’re not One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest crazy.

Moses needed to establish credibility among the people, so he asked God for his name. God responded: “I Am Who I Am.” In Hebrew, ehyeh asher ehyeh translates to “I will be what I will be.” This name declares God’s sufficiency, faithfulness, and power.

Still, Moses doubted he would be credible enough. How often do we, like Moses, wonder what other people will think of us?

When we place too much weight on the opinions of others, the line between caring and people-pleasing blurs quickly. It can gradually chip away at our confidence, fuel our anxiety, and even lead us to compromise our values or calling from God.

Paul reminds us in Galatians 1:10,“If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” He makes it unmistakably clear that we must choose: either seek the eternal approval of God or chase the fleeting approval of man.

God’s response, “I Am Who I Am,” serves as a powerful reminder that our validation comes from God, not people. When we stand on the mighty name of Jesus and depend on his inconceivable might, we find the courage to move forward in faith despite any fears of what other people might think.

As we continue to meditate on Moses’ questions and God’s responses, let’s reflect on our own lives and remind ourselves where our true validation comes from. Let’s respond to the call of God with confidence, knowing that no matter what people think, it is the opinion of “I AM” that matters most.

Reflection

• What does God’s name reveal to you about his character?
• In what areas of your life are you seeking approval from others?

Prayer

Lord, help me release the pressure to please others and find my validation in you alone. In Jesus’ name. Amen.