Is Dis Belief?

Let’s examine together Moses’ third question: “What if they do not believe me or listen to me and say, ‘The Lord did not appear to you’?” (Exodus 4:1). Naturally, Moses was concerned about the optics of his situation, and while we may be tempted to judge his line of questioning, let’s first put ourselves in his sandals for a moment.

Imagine that today, right now, God presented himself to you through a burning house plant and told you to travel to a distant land where he would use you to deliver an entire nation from oppression. I know I would most certainly have questions. How am I getting there? Is my airfare divinely covered? Will they think I’m crazy when I tell them God spoke to me through a flaming hydrangea?

It’s easy to forget that biblical figures were real people with real fears. Moses wasn’t worried about failing; he was worried about being dismissed. God responded to Moses’ fears not with judgment but, instead, helped him perform three miraculous acts to strengthen his confidence.

1. From Staff to Snake
   God turned Moses’ staff into a snake and back into a staff again (Exodus 4:2–4). The takeaway? God can use anything—even a stick. So yes, he can use you too.
2. From Leprous to Healed
   God turned Moses’ hand leprous then healed it (Exodus 4:6–7). A reminder that nothing is too far gone for God to restore.
3. From Water to Blood
   God told Moses to take water from the Nile River and pour it onto the ground, and it would become blood (Exodus 4:8–9). This foreshadowed the coming plagues and proved God already knew the full story.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What if they don’t believe me?”, you’re not alone. God is patient with our doubts and provides what we need. The same God who was with Moses is with you. And that, my friend, is a sure sign of acceptance.

Reflect

• Where do you fear rejection or not being believed?
• What “signs” from God have you received that show you he’s with you?

Prayer

Lord, thank you for every sign of your presence. Help me not to be ruled by fear but to rest in the assurance that I am seen, loved, and sent by you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.