Old and Broken…Finally Usable

Summary

In this reflective talk, Dwayne discusses the story of Moses from Exodus, emphasizing how Moses, raised in Pharaoh's palace, initially tried to fulfill God's plan in his own strength and timing but faced failure. After fleeing to Midian and spending 40 years in the wilderness, Moses doubted his calling. Dwayne highlights that God's callings are irrevocable, suggesting that personal struggles and setbacks may prepare individuals for future service. He encourages viewers to recognize their journeys, including times spent in 'the desert,' as essential for spiritual growth and eventual divine purpose.

Takeaways

• 👶 Moses was born into a Jewish family during a time of oppression, with a decree from Pharaoh ordering the death of male infants.
• 📜 Raised in Pharaoh's household, Moses had access to education, privilege, and power, setting the stage for his future role.
• 🔪 At 40 years old, Moses attempted to rescue a Hebrew by killing an Egyptian, acting in his own strength rather than waiting for God's timing.
• 🏃‍♂️ After killing the Egyptian, Moses fled to Midian, where he spent 40 years in the wilderness, questioning his purpose and feeling like a failure.
• 🕰️ God's timing is crucial; Moses was not ready to fulfill his calling until he had gained humility and wisdom through his struggles.
• 🌄 God can use our past mistakes and wilderness experiences to prepare us for our future purpose.
• ⚡️ The gifts and callings of God are irrevocable; He does not change His mind about those He calls to serve Him.
• 🤔 Many individuals feel disqualified from their calling due to past mistakes, but God sees the bigger picture and can still use them.
• 🌱 The time spent in the 'desert' may be essential for personal growth and character development, leading to future success.
• 🙏 When God eventually calls you, even after years of feeling unworthy, He can use you for His plan if you're willing to listen.

Q & A

What is the main story discussed in the video?

The video discusses the story of Moses, focusing on his upbringing in Pharaoh's household, his realization of his Hebrew identity, and his journey towards fulfilling God's calling.

What significant event happens when Moses is 40 years old?

At 40 years old, Moses witnesses an Egyptian beating a Hebrew and, in a moment of anger, kills the Egyptian and hides his body in the sand.

How does Moses's initial attempt to help his brethren turn out?

Moses's initial attempt to help leads to him fleeing Egypt after being discovered, resulting in him spending 40 years in the wilderness.

What does Dwayne emphasize about God's timing in Moses's life?

Dwayne emphasizes that God's timing is crucial; Moses was not ready at 40 but became prepared for his mission after 40 years of humility and reflection in the wilderness.

How does Moses's experience in the wilderness serve him later?

Moses's time in the wilderness helps him gain humility and wisdom, which ultimately makes him a better leader when God calls him to deliver the Israelites.

What lesson does Dwayne draw from Moses's story about personal failures?

Dwayne illustrates that personal failures and periods of waiting are not wasted; they can lead to spiritual growth and prepare individuals for their divine purpose.

What does the phrase 'the gifts and callings of God are without repentance' mean?

This phrase means that once God has called someone to serve, that calling remains, even if the individual makes mistakes or faces setbacks.

What qualities does Dwayne suggest are necessary for effective service?

Dwayne suggests that humility, wisdom, and a willingness to learn from past mistakes are essential qualities for effective service.

What does Dwayne say about the impact of our past mistakes on God's plan?

He asserts that while we may feel disqualified due to our mistakes, God can use those experiences to shape us and prepare us for future service.

How does Dwayne relate Moses's journey to the experiences of those in ministry?

Dwayne relates Moses's journey to the experiences of people in ministry by suggesting that many may feel unprepared or have doubts, yet God has a plan and purpose for them that will unfold in His timing.