Fear often does not come from reality, but from our own thoughts. We exaggerate things that may never happen, then let that fear bind our steps. This is what Moses experienced when God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
When God spoke to him through the burning bush that was not consumed, Moses should have been full of confidence that God was with him. Yet what came out of Moses’ mouth were various fearful excuses: “But Moses said to God, ‘Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?’” (Exodus 3:11). Moses felt too small, too weak, and unable.
That fear was actually made up by Moses’ own mind. God had already promised His presence, even saying, “I will surely be with you” (Exodus 3:12). But Moses still kept looking for excuses. He said he was not eloquent (Exodus 4:10). In truth, the main issue was not Moses’ ability, but obedience to the all-powerful God.
Made-up fear often happens to us too. We fear failure, fear rejection, or fear that we are not capable enough. Yet many of those fears are not necessarily real. Like Moses, we may be resisting God’s call simply because we trust our weakness more than His power.
The Bible repeatedly reminds us, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). This means the fear that paralyzes us does not come from God. It is only a trap that can keep us from seeing how greatly God’s power is at work in us.
Moses eventually learned to obey, even though at first he offered many excuses. And through Moses, we see how God performed great miracles: the plagues in Egypt, the sea parted, and the Israelites came out of slavery. All of that was not because Moses was great, but because he finally overcame his fear and trusted God’s promise.
Today, what makes you afraid? Is it failure, rejection, or an unclear future? Remember that many fears are only shadows we create ourselves. If God has called and is with us, then we can move forward in faith. Do not let unreal fear stop our steps from fulfilling His plan.
Lord, so often I let fear take over my thoughts and make me hesitate to obey. Forgive me when I trust my weakness more than Your power. Teach me to step forward in faith, not in fear. Assure me that You are always with me, just as You were with Moses. Amen.
