God knows how to get my attention through His Word. This week, I’ve been reading Exodus, and God’s pointed out some great lessons for me.

God knew how to get Moses’ attention, too — namely, the burning bush. God called Moses to lead His people Israel out of Egypt.

• Moses’ first focus was on himself. “Oh, Lord, not me. I can’t do what you’re asking.”
• Moses’ second focus was on the people to whom he was being sent. “Oh, Lord, they’ll never believe me or the message.”

In each instance of faulty focusing, God redirected Moses to Himself.

• “You say you can’t do it, but I, the Almighty God, will be with you each step of the way!”
• “You say the people won’t believe you, but you should tell them that ‘I AM’ has sent you.”

God additionally encourages Moses by stating, “I AM has sent you to them.”

As I reflected on these things, I saw correlations in my own life and ministry. First, I often focus inwardly and see all my limitations, faults, and failures. I can grow discouraged very quickly when my mind is focused on myself. But God has promised never to leave or forsake me (Heb. 13:5); and I have the added blessing of having God’s own Spirit indwelling me 24/7 (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

Focusing on the people around me can also bring on despair. Japanese people, in particular, are known for their lack of interest and openness to spiritual things, especially the Bible and Christianity. If I think too much about how unresponsive they are, I can start to give up. But God hasn’t called me to “save” anyone or change anyone. That’s work only He can do. God has called me to faithfully share His Word, His working in my own life, and how the gospel applies to each person I encounter. It’s encouraging to me to remember that Jesus promised to build His church (Matthew 16:18). It doesn’t rest solely on my puny shoulders!

God encourages me to focus on Him, His unfathomable power, and His presence. With God, nothing is impossible (Matthew 19:26)! When I focus on Him, my spirit is buoyed up with hope and stability.

Just as the Almighty Great I AM sent Moses to Egypt to deliver the word of salvation to His people, this same unchanging God has sent my husband and me to Japan. His power is no less miraculous now than it was then. God sends each of us to our neighbors, family, friends, and acquaintances. We have the privilege of sharing the greatest news of all time — “Deliverance is available! God loves you!”

Where’s your focus today?