Moses, one of the most prominent figures in the Bible, is often remembered for his leadership and faith. However, his journey was not without moments of doubt and hesitation. These expressions of doubt are significant as they reveal the humanity of Moses and the challenges he faced in fulfilling God's calling.

The Burning Bush Encounter

Moses' initial expression of doubt occurs during his encounter with God at the burning bush (Exodus 3-4). When God calls Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses responds with hesitation. In Exodus 3:11 , Moses questions his own adequacy: "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" This question reflects Moses' self-doubt and his awareness of his limitations.

God reassures Moses by promising His presence, saying, "I will surely be with you" (Exodus 3:12). Despite this assurance, Moses continues to express doubt. In Exodus 4:1 , he worries about the Israelites' disbelief: "What if they refuse to believe me or listen to my voice? For they may say, ‘The LORD has not appeared to you.’" God responds by providing Moses with miraculous signs to validate his divine commission.

Speech Impediment Concerns

Moses further expresses doubt regarding his speaking abilities. In Exodus 4:10 , he protests, "Please, Lord, I have never been eloquent—neither in the past nor since You have spoken to Your servant—for I am slow of speech and tongue." Moses' concern about his speech impediment highlights his fear of inadequacy in fulfilling the role of a leader and spokesperson.

God addresses this concern by reminding Moses that He is the Creator of the mouth and promises to help him speak: "Now go! I will help you as you speak, and I will teach you what to say" (Exodus 4:12). Despite this reassurance, Moses pleads for God to send someone else, leading to God's appointment of Aaron as Moses' spokesman (Exodus 4:13-16).

The Reluctance at the Red Sea

Another instance of Moses' doubt is seen at the Red Sea. As the Israelites face the pursuing Egyptian army, they express fear and regret for leaving Egypt. In Exodus 14:13-14 , Moses tells the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."

While Moses' words to the Israelites are confident, the subsequent verses suggest an internal struggle. God instructs Moses to stop crying out and to move forward, indicating that Moses may have been privately expressing doubt or seeking further assurance from God (Exodus 14:15).

The Incident at Meribah

Moses' doubt is also evident in the incident at Meribah, where the Israelites grumble for water. In Numbers 20:10-12 , Moses, frustrated with the people's complaints, strikes the rock twice instead of speaking to it as God commanded. This act of disobedience is rooted in a moment of doubt and frustration, leading to God's decision that Moses would not enter the Promised Land.

Significance

Moses' expressions of doubt serve as a reminder of the human struggle with faith and obedience. Despite his doubts, Moses remains a central figure in God's plan, demonstrating that God can work through human weakness to accomplish His purposes. These moments of doubt highlight the importance of reliance on God's strength and guidance, even for the most revered leaders.