5.1. Invite the group to discuss times in their lives when they’ve had to face something that they can’t – or are scared to – do. What was it that they were asked to do? Why did they feel that they couldn’t do it? What happened? Did they overcome the obstacles or did someone else have to step in?
5.2. Read Exodus 3:1-6, 7, 10; 4:1-17. Establish the situation God is calling Moses to and his role in it and discuss the excuses Moses comes up with. Remember that he was afraid of going back because of his past and highlight verse 10: he feels inadequate.
5.3. Read Exodus 5:1; 7:15-16,20; 8:8-9, 25-29; 9:27-30; 11:4-8. What can we observe from these passages? What do they have in common? How do they contrast with the readings in 5.2? God used Moses despite his excuses and weaknesses. Paul, a New Testament writer, understood this and recognises that when we do things that we would ordinarily struggle with, or resist, we are doing those things in God’s strength, just as Moses did. Check out Philippians 4:13.
5.4. Take a moment to discuss the times when we’ve wanted to do things – especially for God – but felt inadequate as a young Christian. Perhaps we’ve been afraid that older/more ‘mature’ Christians might say we’re too young to get involved or have an opinion. Read Exodus 18:5-12 and observe the effect that Moses’ account of Israel’s experiences has on Jethro (salvation). Go on to read verses 13-27 to see what happens next. God uses this new believer immediately. Paul, who wrote Philippians, also understood the difficulties young believers face and encourages his friend Timothy – and ultimately us – not to be afraid. Read 1 Timothy 4:12.
5.5. Finally, what about when we actually do get to do the things we want/have to do, but find that the road is beset with problems? Discuss some of the problems that the Israelites faced after leaving Egypt (if it helps, read Exodus 14:10-12; 15:22-24; 16:3; 17:1-2). Put ourselves in their shoes – would we be any different? Their journey is not so different to ours but, regardless of the troubles, God has a purpose in mind. Read 13:17-18. The Israelites could have taken a shorter journey, but it would have been perilous.
Week 5: Summary
Three new characteristics of God that we have learnt this week…
- God uses us despite our excuses and weaknesses.
- God can use new believers.
- God has a purpose in mind.
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