February 7--Morning
February 7—Morning "When I am weak, then am I strong."
Exodus 4:1 Those whom God sends are often slow to go, and yet men whom the Lord never sent push themselves into office eagerly.
Exodus 4:2-3 This was a sign to him that though now a humble shepherd he would become so powerful as to terrify Pharaoh. The pastoral staff should be dreadful as a serpent.
Here he learned that the power with which he was endowed while it would be as a terrible serpent towards Egypt, would be for himself and for Israel a harmless shepherd's crook. Both the signs would encourage Moses.
Exodus 4:7-8 This he saw that the Lord can both wither and restore. All who work for the Lord should remember this.
Exodus 4:9-13 By this reluctance Moses lost much honour, for Aaron became the high priest, and he obtained a helper who also proved to be a hindrance.
It is interesting to note that other eminent prophets besides Moses have shrunk at first from their commission. We will read how Jeremiah did so.
Jeremiah 1:6-9 O Lord, grant that all thy ministers may have their mouths touched in the same manner.
Father of mercies, bow thine ear, Attentive to our earnest prayer;
We plead for those who plead for thee, Successful pleaders may they be!
Lord, how can sinful lips proclaim The honours of so great a name!
O for thine altar's glowing coal, To touch their lips, and fire their soul.