Godly Encounters

Bible Study: “Excuses, Obedience, and the Fire of Purpose”

Exodus 4:11–31 (NKJV)

Theme: God uses imperfect people for His perfect plan, but obedience is required to unlock divine authority and favor.

Short Story: “The One Who Couldn’t Speak”

There was a young boy named Marcus who stuttered so badly that he hated talking in front of people. One day, his church youth group leader asked him to read Scripture during a service. He panicked. “Why me? I can’t do that!” But that night, he went home and cried out, “God, if You made me like this, how can You use me like this?” The next Sunday, Marcus stood at the podium shaking. But something happened—he read without stuttering. Not because he had changed, but because God showed up. Years later, Marcus became a pastor—not because he was perfect, but because he obeyed. God doesn’t wait for us to be polished. He calls us to be willing.

Point 1: God Doesn’t Call the Qualified – He Qualifies the Called Exodus 4:11–12

“So the Lord said to him, ‘Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the Lord? Now therefore, go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall say.’”

Breakdown:

God checks Moses for doubting the call. His question is rhetorical and divine: “Who made the mouth?” God’s reminding Moses (and us) that the Creator has power over the created. If He gave you the assignment, He’ll give you the speech.

Parallel Scriptures & Meaning:

Jeremiah 1:6–9 – Jeremiah’s youth didn’t matter. God touched his mouth.

2 Corinthians 12:9 – Weakness is the setup for God’s strength.

1 Corinthians 1:27–29 – God chooses the unqualified to silence the proud.

Kingdom Principle: God doesn’t need your talent; He needs your trust.

The mission comes with divine speech, strength, and strategy—if you just go.

Icebreaker/Discussion Questions:

What’s the biggest excuse you’ve used to delay your calling?

How has God shown Himself strong in an area where you felt weak?

Point 2: God Allows Help, But Still Expects Obedience

Exodus 4:13–17

“O my Lord, please send by the hand of whomever else You may send… So the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses…”

Breakdown: Moses’ refusal triggers God’s anger—not because he’s honest about his fear, but because he’s avoiding obedience. God provides Aaron as a spokesman, but Moses remains the leader. Help doesn’t cancel assignment.

Parallel Scriptures & Meaning:

Matthew 10:19–20 – The Spirit will speak for you.

Luke 1:18–20 – Zechariah doubted God’s word and was silenced.

Numbers 11:17 – Help in leadership still requires the original call to lead.

Kingdom Principle: Partnership is not a replacement for personal responsibility.

God may send you help, but He still expects you to obey.

Discussion Questions:

Have you ever leaned on someone else to do something God asked you to do?

Why do we sometimes reject divine help, even when we’re overwhelmed?

Point 3: God Deals with Disobedience in His Servants

Exodus 4:24–26

“And it came to pass… the Lord met him and sought to kill him. Then Zipporah took a sharp stone and cut off the foreskin of her son…”

Breakdown: Moses failed to obey a covenant requirement—circumcision. God was about to kill him until Zipporah intervened. God won’t let you represent Him publicly if your private life is out of order.

Parallel Scriptures & Meaning:

Genesis 17:10–14 – Circumcision was a non-negotiable sign of the covenant.

1 Peter 4:17 – Judgment begins in the house of God.

Hebrews 12:6 – God disciplines those He loves.

Kingdom Principle: Before God sends you to Pharaoh, He’ll sanctify your house.

Private obedience prepares you for public authority.

Discussion Questions:

Is there something in your home life or heart that God is telling you to fix before you go forward?

What does this moment teach us about Zipporah’s spiritual discernment?

Point 4: Obedience Unlocks Favor and Influence

Exodus 4:27–31

“So the people believed; and when they heard that the Lord had visited the children of Israel… they bowed their heads and worshiped.”

Breakdown: Moses obeys. Aaron speaks. The elders receive. And the people worship. The process is complete. When we walk in obedience, God orchestrates favor, not because of our charm, but because of our alignment.

Parallel Scriptures & Meaning:

Proverbs 16:7 – Even enemies are at peace with a righteous man.

Acts 5:29–32 – Obedience makes us witnesses of God’s power.

Joshua 3:7 – God elevates leaders who obey.

Kingdom Principle: Obedience opens doors no title can.

When your walk matches your words, people follow—and God is glorified.

Discussion Questions:

What recent obedience has produced unexpected favor or worship in others?

How can obedience influence a whole community, not just an individual?

Closing Reflection:

Are you wrestling with excuses instead of trusting the God who made your mouth?

What obedience is God requiring of you before you walk into your next assignment?

Is your private life ready for public responsibility?

Prayer:

“Lord, we thank You that You don’t wait on us to be perfect — You call us in our weakness. Forgive us for every excuse. Help us obey, cut off disobedience, and walk in alignment so that our lives reflect You. Give us the fire of purpose, and let us not delay. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”