Exodus 3:11-22 It’s Not About You
“God said, “I’ll be with you”
Overview
Exodus 3:11–22 illustrates Moses’ hesitation when God calls him to lead Israel out of Egypt. Moses questions his own worthiness and authority, asking, “Who am I?” God replies, “I will be with you,” emphasizing that Moses’ mission is grounded in divine presence, not human strength.
When Moses asks for God’s name, the Lord reveals Himself as “I AM WHO I AM” (Yahweh)—the eternal, self-existent One who keeps covenant promises. God assures Moses that He has seen His people’s suffering, will demonstrate His power through signs and wonders, and will bring Israel into a land flowing with milk and honey. Even Pharaoh’s resistance will serve God’s purpose.
When God Says “I Will Be With You”
Moses stood before the burning bush, barefoot and trembling. God had called him to a task that seemed impossible—to confront Pharaoh, liberate an enslaved nation, and lead them into the Promised Land. Moses’ first response wasn’t boldness; it was fear. “Who am I?” he asked. The question still echoes in the hearts of everyone called to do something beyond themselves.
God didn’t answer by building up Moses’ self-esteem. He didn’t say, “You’ve got this.” Instead, He said, “I will be with you.” Those five words shifted the weight of the mission from Moses’ shoulders to God’s. The call was never about Moses’ ability—it was about God’s presence.
When Moses asked for God’s name, the answer was unlike any other: “I AM WHO I AM.” In Hebrew, this name—YHWH—speaks of a God who is. He doesn’t become; He doesn’t change; He exists eternally, faithfully, and powerfully. It’s the name that speaks of God’s constancy in every generation.
God’s instructions were specific: gather the elders, speak His words, and prepare for opposition. Pharaoh’s resistance was not a surprise—it was part of God’s plan to display His power and faithfulness. Even in resistance, God would work redemption.
In the same way, when God calls us, He already knows our fears and excuses. He also knows His power will be enough. The “I AM” of Moses’ day is still the “I AM” who strengthens His people today. When you feel unqualified, God says, “I will be with you.” When the path seems impossible, God says, “I will stretch out My hand.” And when you doubt your worth, remember: the One who sends you is the same One who saves you.
We’re not defined by what we can do, but by who is with us. The mission of Moses, like ours, begins and ends with the presence of the great I AM.
Why This Is Important
Moses’ question, “Who am I?” is more than ancient insecurity—it mirrors our modern search for identity through association.
Think of how we evaluate worth today: “Who’s backing you? Who’s on your team?” A project gains credibility not from its concept but from its collaborators. Moses felt the same insecurity—weighed down by self-doubt until God revealed the ultimate partnership. The “I AM” was his endorsement, his authority, and his confidence.
God’s Promises: Past, Present, and Future
Past Promise God’s covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to give their descendants the land (Genesis 15:13 14; 17:7 8).God remembers this covenant and calls Moses to fulfill it.
Present Fulfillment God commissions Moses, pledges His presence, and reveals His divine name (Exodus 3:12–15) . Israel’s redemption begins with God’s self-revelation and action.
Future Foreshadowing: Deliverance through Moses points to Jesus, the eternal “I AM” (John 8:58). Christ fulfills the greater Exodus—redeeming humanity from sin and death.
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