As I walked down our gravel road, my mind began to reflect on all that God was doing and honestly I was amazed. He was doing things I never expected and at times pouring out blessings I didn’t feel I deserved. I thought about the privileges and responsibilities He had given to me as a wife and Mom, along with my role on a women’s ministry team. On top of this I was in the process of publishing a book that shared the role of mentoring in my life. Personally I did not feel worthy and on that lonely, quiet country road I can remember saying to God, “Who am I? Why are you blessing me? Why are you using me?”
Have you ever been there? Have you asked the question, "Who am I?" Have you asked God this question? I really don't believe I'm the only one who has, so please if you're part of the group share your story with me!
Today friend, I want you to know that it's not just you and me in this question asking club, because others have done the same.
Will you join me in looking at Exodus 3? Here we find the story of Moses and the burning bush, where God reveals Himself to Moses. But He doesn't stop there, no God calls Moses and instructs him to bring His people out of Israel.
In verse 11 we hear Moses's response, "But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” Does that sound familiar?? A child of God questioning his call, ability and perhaps even his worth. I understand and am reminded of not long ago when my 8 year old son said to me, "Mom, you're a lot like Moses!"
Perhaps Moses was the founder of the "Who am I?" club, but he was joined by another great man of the Bible. Now let us turn to 2 Samuel chapter 7 - God has just promised David that He will establish his kingdom, one that will last forever. And how does David respond?
In verses 18 and 19 we read, "Then King David went in and sat before the LORD, and he said: “Who am I, Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? And as if this were not enough in your sight, Sovereign LORD, you have also spoken about the future of the house of your servant—and this decree, Sovereign LORD, is for a mere human!"
I'm not sure about you, but it helps me to know I'm not alone in asking the question, "Who am I?" But I can find even more help as I read on...
Moses, who asked the question because he doubted his ability, heard some encouraging words after voicing his concern to God. Our Father, the creator of the world, had this to say to our frightened friend, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.” (Ex. 3:12)
God's response wasn't based on Moses's strengths, abilities or even his weaknesses; instead God knew all Moses needed was His presence! Friend, I believe He says the same to me and you today!!
We can also find insight in the next bit of David's story as well - we left off when David was wondering why God had brought him so far and promised him so much. I believe David is a bit like you and me, well aware of his faults, shortcomings and sin; perhaps he felt he didn't deserve all God was giving. But rather than dwell on this, listen to what David says next, “How great you are, Sovereign LORD! There is no one like you, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears. LORD Almighty, God of Israel, you have revealed this to your servant, saying, ‘I will build a house for you.’ So your servant has found courage to pray this prayer to you. Sovereign LORD, you are God! Your covenant is trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant. Now be pleased to bless the house of your servant, that it may continue forever in your sight; for you, Sovereign LORD, have spoken, and with your blessing the house of your servant will be blessed forever.” (2 Samuel 7:22, 27-29)
Rather than focusing on himself, David turned his eyes and thoughts towards God. The truth of who God is, reminded him of who he was and when we focus on God, He will do the same for us. That doesn't mean we are deserving of the blessings and gifts He shares, but our God is a giving God and as His children we should receive what He has to offer with open arms rather than endless questions.
These thoughts remind me of a phrase our Pastor likes to use, "God says it, so that settles it!!" Friend, the next time you feel like Moses and question your ability to do what God is calling you to do or feel like David and wonder if you're worthy of what God is giving you, will you join me in embracing the idea my pastor shares? The truth is God will equip you for His calling and because of His grace we will be given blessings and opportunities we don't deserve.
I'd love to hear if you've asked the question, "Who am I?" What answer did God give you?
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