A Story of Faith, Insecurity, and Spiritual Growth
It’s easy to assume that God works through people who have it all together—those who are confident, articulate, and spiritually strong. But Scripture tells a very different story. Over and over again, God chooses ordinary people with doubts, fears, and imperfect pasts to accomplish extraordinary things.
In this week’s message at Shepherd’s Gate Church, we looked at Exodus 4, where Moses wrestles with insecurity, fear, and the feeling of being unqualified. His story reminds us that faith and spiritual growth don’t begin with confidence in ourselves—but with trust in a faithful God.
Whether you’re navigating work and family life, feeling stretched thin, or wondering if God could really use someone like you, this story speaks directly to everyday faith.
God’s Call Meets Human Doubt
By the time we meet Moses in Exodus 4, his life feels settled. He’s no longer living in a palace. He’s a shepherd, a husband, a father—doing the same workday after day. Then God interrupts his routine in a dramatic way, appearing in a burning bush and calling him to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt (Exodus 3:10).
Moses’ response is not enthusiasm—it’s hesitation.
“What if they do not believe me or listen to me?” (Exodus 4:1)
Moses isn’t questioning God’s power, but he is questioning his own adequacy. And that’s something many of us can relate to. When God invites us into something bigger—whether it’s deeper faith, leadership, service, or obedience—we often respond with doubt.
“What’s in Your Hand?”
God answers Moses with a simple question:
“What is that in your hand?” (Exodus 4:2)
Moses replies, “A staff.”
To Moses, it was just a tool—ordinary and familiar, but God saw more.
That staff represented Moses’ identity, income, and influence. It was how he worked, how he provided, and how he led. God asked Moses to throw it on the ground, where it turned into a snake and then back into a staff again (Exodus 4:3–4).
This illustration send a clear message: God can work through what you already have.
Later, Scripture refers to this same staff as “the staff of God” (Exodus 4:20). What once seemed ordinary became a symbol of God’s power at work.
When Faith Becomes Personal
God then gave Moses additional signs—his hand became leprous and then healed, and later the promise that water from the Nile would turn to blood if needed (Exodus 4:6–9). These signs weren’t just for the people of Israel. They were for Moses to understand that the Lord was stepping in to support him. And yet, Moses still resisted.“Pardon your servant, Lord… I am slow of speech and tongue.” (Exodus 4:10)
This moment reveals something deeper: Moses isn’t lacking proof—he’s battling insecurity.
Insecurity often shows up when we focus more on our limitations than on God’s promises.
A Word for Everyone—And Especially for Men
This struggle speaks to everyone, but it often shows up in specific ways for men. Many men feel pressure to prove themselves through performance, success, or strength. Vulnerability can feel uncomfortable. Comparison becomes exhausting. .
Moses felt it too. He questioned his voice, his past, and his ability to lead.
God’s response is gentle but firm: “Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” (Exodus 4:12)
God doesn’t deny Moses’ weakness. He promises His presence.
That same promise applies today. Faith grows not when we feel confident, but when we trust God enough to take the next step—even with fear.
God Often Works Through Community
When Moses continues to hesitate, God provides help by sending his brother Aaron to speak alongside him (Exodus 4:14–16). This isn’t punishment—it’s grace.
God never intended Moses to lead alone.
The same is true for us. Spiritual growth happens best in community—through worship, relationships, and shared faith. That’s why connection is so important at Shepherd’s Gate Church. God often strengthens us through others when we’re willing to walk together.
What Has God Placed in Your Life?
This story invites us to reflect:
What’s in your hand?
>Your abilities
>Your experiences
>Your relationships
>Your influence at home, work, or school
For parents, this may look like spiritual leadership in everyday moments.
For singles, it may be faithful living and trust where you are now.
For families, it may be prayer, consistency, and modeling faith at home.
Nothing is insignificant when placed in God’s hands.
Simple Steps Toward Spiritual Growth
If you’re wondering how to live this out, start small:
• Pray honestly—bring your doubts to God
• Open Scripture—let God shape your identity
• Take one step—obedience grows faith
• Stay connected—don’t walk alone
God doesn’t wait for perfect people. He works through willing ones.
Watch the Full Sermon
This message is part of our ongoing Exodus sermon series at Shepherd’s Gate Church in Macomb, MI.
👉 Watch the full sermon here
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