WHAT SHALL I SAY?

MEMORY VERSE: And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you (Exodus 3:14).

A team of market researchers recently asked 3,000 people, "Of what are you the most afraid?" The number one fear was speaking before a group. Had the survey been conducted on the backside of the desert where Moses was tending sheep, the results would have been the same. When God called Moses to lead His people out of slavery, he doubted his ability as a speaker. "What shall I say unto them?" he asked.

Moses' question has been repeated through the centuries by those called upon to serve the Lord. Challenged to teach, many have asked, "What shall I say unto them?" Christians convicted about their responsibility to do visitation work in their communities have echoed the question. Young ministers facing their first preaching responsibilities have joined the chorus. Perhaps no question has ascended to heaven as often as this one. You may have voiced it this very week when preparing for some ministry in your church.

God's answer to Moses reveals that success in carrying out a mission depends more on the sender than on the speaker. And in every work of God -- He is the sender. Moses would not go in his own strength nor by his own authority. He would be sent by the Eternal God.

We must remember that all Christian service is empowered by the One who said, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth (Matthew 28:18).

Go to your task in confidence. You do not go alone.

You have been sent by the all-powerful One.

Approach your mission with assurance. Repeat these words: "The Lord has sent me to serve." He will tell you what to say!