Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.
Twice in this chapter Moses repeats his reservations about the task to which God has called him. It isn't that he's afraid of the Egyptians or that he doubts God's power. It is that he is ‘such a poor speaker’ (verses 12, 30).
Words are incredibly powerful. They are used to move us and persuade us. An actor can stir deep emotions in us; an orator can shape the course of people and nations. Sometimes these skills are used for good; sometimes they are used for very bad purposes indeed.
Skilful speakers need to be people of character, who are honest and diligent; they shouldn't talk just for effect, but from deep and well-grounded conviction. That's why the standards set for teachers in the New Testament are so high (e.g. Titus 1.5–9).
But there aren't many people with that sort of gift. Most of us know what we think, but aren't necessarily eloquent in expressing or defending it. We feel inadequate, like Moses.
The Bible doesn't only celebrate people who are good with words, though. In the Sermon on the Mount, it's the ‘good things you do’ that cause people to praise God (Matthew 5.16). In John 9, the man born blind is unable to explain his healing, but his words: ‘One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I see’ (verse 25) are mighty.
Moses himself was not eloquent, but he was faithful – and God did great things through him. We can admire great gifts, but great faithfulness is even better.
God, help me to use the gifts you've given me well, and not to worry about the gifts you haven't but to trust in your good purposes for me.
This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor
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