FIVE EXCUSES

It is the song most frequently played at British funeral services. It is the most remade song in history. It was popularized by Frank Sinatra on his 1969 album, "My Way." In the Philippines, "My Way" is so popular in karaoke bars that it has been declared responsible for a number of deaths where arguments over performance degenerated into violence. "And did it my way!" "Yes it was my way!" I did it my way is the way of the world. It is not the way of Jesus. Jesus said, "Yet, not as I will , but as you will. (Matthew 26:39) He prays, "May your will be done." He made no excuses. Jesus did it God's way. If we look at the life of Moses we see he made five excuses before eventually agreeing to follow God's way.

1. Moses says, "Who Am I?" He felt inadequate. We feel, "I am not good enough. I am not holy enough. Moses said, "You've got the wrong person. Why me. God said: "I will be with you." That is all that matters.

2. I am not ready yet. He felt ill informed. He would not be able to answer their questions. God said, "This is what you are to say." God will give you the message at the right time.

3. I might fail. Moses says, "What happens if it all goes wrong? What if they do not believe me or listen?" In answer, God showed Moses His power. (Exodus 4:2-9)

4. I do not have the skills. Moses says, "I do not have the right gifts". I am slow of speech and tongue. God said, "I will help you speak and will teach you what to say."(Exodus 4:12)

5. Someone else will do it. God was not pleased but said he would send Aaron to be with him, "I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do."

God revealed his character to Moses. "I am the Lord". His character has not changed, he is faithful and keeps his word. He suffers with you. He feels your pain. He guarantees deliverance and freedom. He brings you into an intimate relationship with himself. He leads you to your inheritance and takes you home.

Prayer: Lord, thank you that you say, "I will be with you." Thank you for the immense privilege of hearing your call and walking in your ways. Even when sometimes things seem to be getting worse rather than better, help me to keep going your way.