The story of the burning bush is one of the most powerful moments in Scripture. It’s a scene where God calls Moses by name, inviting him into a divine mission to deliver the Israelites from slavery. This encounter isn’t just a pivotal moment in Moses’ life—it’s a reminder for all of us. God often calls us to step into situations where we can be His answer in the lives of others. Today’s devotional challenges us with this truth: “Be the answer.”
Exodus 3:4 The New International Version
4 When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!”
God’s Call to Moses: A Model for Us
Exodus 3:4 marks a turning point in Moses’ life. After years of living as a shepherd in Midian, far removed from Egypt and its troubles, Moses encounters God in a miraculous way. The burning bush captures his attention, and as he turns aside to investigate, God speaks directly to him. This divine encounter reveals several truths about how God calls us to be His answer:
- God Gets Our Attention
Just as the burning bush drew Moses in, God often uses moments in our lives—whether through Scripture, prayer, or circumstances—to awaken us to His purposes. These moments may come as quiet nudges or dramatic shifts, but they remind us that God is always at work. - God Calls Us Personally
Notice how God calls Moses by name. This shows that His call is personal and specific. In the same way, when God calls us to be an answer in someone’s life, it’s because He knows us intimately and has equipped us for that purpose. - God Invites Our Availability
Moses responds with “Here I am.” This simple yet profound statement reflects a willingness to listen and obey. Being the answer begins with making ourselves available to God.
What Does It Mean to Be the Answer?
To “be the answer” means allowing God to work through you to meet the needs of others. It’s about stepping into situations with compassion, humility, and faith, trusting that God will use you as His instrument of love and grace.
- Reflecting Christ’s Love
Jesus modelled what it means to be the answer through His life and ministry. He healed the sick, comforted the brokenhearted, fed the hungry, and forgave sins. As His followers, we are called to reflect this same love in tangible ways (John 13:34-35). - Meeting Practical Needs
Sometimes being the answer is as simple as providing for someone’s immediate needs—whether it’s offering a meal, lending a listening ear, or helping with a task. - Encouraging Others Spiritually
Being the answer also involves pointing people toward Christ. Through prayer, encouragement, or sharing Scripture, we can help others experience God’s presence and hope. - Standing in Faith During Challenges
Like Moses, we may feel inadequate or unqualified when God calls us. But being the answer doesn’t require perfection—it requires faith. Trust that God will equip you for whatever He asks you to do (Exodus 4:10-12).
Practical Ways to Be the Answer
Here are some practical steps you can take to live out this calling:
- Be Attentive
Pay attention to the needs around you—whether it’s a friend going through a tough time or a stranger who could use kindness. Often, opportunities to be the answer are right in front of us. - Pray for Guidance
Ask God how He wants you to serve others today. Prayer opens your heart to His direction and helps you discern where He is calling you. - Act with Compassion
When you see someone in need, don’t hesitate to act. Small gestures of kindness can have a big impact. - Share Your Faith
Don’t underestimate the power of sharing your testimony or offering words of encouragement rooted in Scripture. - Trust God’s Strength
Remember that it’s not about your abilities but about God working through you. As Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
The Ripple Effect of Being the Answer
When we respond to God’s call and step into someone’s life as an answer to their prayers or needs, we create ripples that extend far beyond what we can see. Just as Moses’ obedience led to the liberation of an entire nation, our willingness to serve can bring freedom, hope, and transformation into someone else’s life.
Moreover, being the answer strengthens our own faith journey. It deepens our relationship with God as we witness His power at work through our obedience.
Encouragement for Your Journey
You may feel unqualified or hesitant when faced with opportunities to be the answer—but take heart! Just as God reassured Moses with His presence and power (Exodus 3:12), He promises to equip and guide you as well.
Remember this truth: You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be willing. When you say “yes” to God’s call—even if it feels daunting—He will provide everything you need.
Read More About This Devotional
Words of Wisdom: Empathy as a Reflection of God’s Grace and Love
Quote of the Day: “Let us be God’s answer in the lives of the people we interact with”
Final Reflection
The story of Moses reminds us that being God’s answer isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting Him enough to say “yes.” Each day presents opportunities for us to reflect Christ’s love through acts of kindness and compassion.
Let today be your chance to step into someone else’s story as an instrument of hope and grace. Remember that even small acts of obedience can have eternal significance when done in faith.
Scripture Reading for the Day
Psalm 124 The New International Version
A song of ascents. Of David.
1 If the Lord had not been on our side—
let Israel say—
2 if the Lord had not been on our side
when people attacked us,
3 they would have swallowed us alive
when their anger flared against us;
4 the flood would have engulfed us,
the torrent would have swept over us,
5 the raging waters
would have swept us away.6 Praise be to the Lord,
who has not let us be torn by their teeth.
7 We have escaped like a bird
from the fowler’s snare;
the snare has been broken,
and we have escaped.
8 Our help is in the name of the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
