Exodus 4

Moses’ Objections and God's Signs (v.1–9):

Moses doubts the Israelites will believe God sent him.

God gives him three signs to confirm his divine calling:

His staff becomes a snake and back again.

His hand becomes leprous and is healed.

Water from the Nile will turn to blood when poured on the ground.

These signs demonstrate God’s power and are meant to build faith in the people.

Moses' Reluctance and God’s Response (v.10–17):

Moses complains that he is not eloquent and is slow of speech.

God reminds Moses that He created the mouth and will help him speak.

Still reluctant, Moses asks God to send someone else.

God becomes angry but provides Aaron, Moses’ brother, as his spokesman.

God will speak to Moses, Moses to Aaron, and Aaron to the people.

Moses is told to take his staff—a symbol of God's power.

Moses Returns to Egypt (v.18–23):

Moses gets permission from Jethro, his father-in-law, to return to Egypt.

God reassures Moses that those seeking his life in Egypt are dead.

On the journey, God tells Moses that Pharaoh’s heart will be hardened.

God calls Israel His firstborn son, and warns Pharaoh that if he refuses to release Israel, God will take Pharaoh’s firstborn—a foreshadowing of the 10th plague.

God Confronts Moses (v.24–26):

On the way, God seeks to kill Moses, likely because his son was not circumcised, violating the Abrahamic covenant.

Zipporah, Moses' wife, circumcises their son, averting God's judgment.

This odd but serious episode underscores the importance of obedience to God’s covenant.

Aaron Joins Moses (v.27–31):

God sends Aaron to meet Moses in the wilderness.

Together they go to Egypt, gather the elders of Israel, and show them the signs.

The people believe, and they worship God, recognizing He has seen their suffering.

Key Themes:
God’s Patience with Our Weaknesses:

God responds to Moses’ fears not with rejection, but with help and reassurance.

Empowerment Despite Insecurity:

Moses feels unqualified, but God equips and enables him for the task.

Obedience to Covenant:

Even leaders must fully obey God’s commands, as seen in the circumcision episode.

Divine Partnership:

God allows Aaron to assist Moses, showing that God can use teams to fulfill His work.

God’s Compassion and Power:

The Israelites respond with worship when they realize God has not forgotten them.

Application Points:
God can work through our weaknesses—what matters is our willingness, not perfection.

Obedience matters, even in small or uncomfortable areas of life.

When God calls, He also provides the support and tools needed.

Don’t delay God’s calling due to fear—He will be with you.

Trust that God sees and hears your situation and is working even when it takes time.