God: “I have a job for you.”
Them: “Thanks, but no thanks.”
Some of the people God called had questions, excuses, fears, and absolutely no interest in the position being offered. One even left town. Fortunately, God has never confused reluctance with inability. Let’s meet some people who tried to decline the job.
Moses
Position Offered
Lead Israel out of Egypt.
“Who am I?” “What if they don’t believe me?” “I am slow of speech.” “Please send someone else.”
What Was Holding Him Back?
Moses doubted his authority, his credibility, and his ability to speak. He kept producing reasons God had chosen the wrong guy.
God’s Answer
God answered Moses’ objections one by one, promised to be with him, and provided Aaron to help him speak.
Gideon
Position Offered
Deliver Israel from Midian.
“My family is the least in Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my father’s house.”
What Was Holding Him Back?
Gideon saw himself as insignificant and repeatedly needed reassurance that God really intended to use him.
God’s Answer
God told Gideon, “I will be with you,” patiently gave him reassurance, and used him to defeat Midian.
Jeremiah
Position Offered
Prophet to the nations.
“I do not know how to speak, because I am a youth.”
What Was Holding Him Back?
Jeremiah believed his age and lack of speaking ability made him unqualified for the assignment.
God’s Answer
God told Jeremiah not to disqualify himself because of his youth and promised to give him the words he needed.
Jonah
Position Offered
Go preach to Nineveh.
Jonah’s response was less “Thanks, but no thanks” and more “Catch me if You can.”
What Was Holding Him Back?
Jonah did not want Nineveh to receive God’s mercy, so instead of accepting the assignment, he boarded a ship going the opposite direction.
God’s Answer
God pursued Jonah, redirected him, and gave him the assignment again. Jonah eventually went, preached, and Nineveh responded.
Saul
Position Offered
First king of Israel.
When it was time to present the new king to Israel, Saul was hiding among the baggage.
What Was Holding Him Back?
Saul had already questioned why someone from his small tribe and insignificant family would be chosen. When the public moment arrived, he hid.
God’s Answer
God identified exactly where Saul was hiding, the people brought him out, and he was presented as Israel’s king.
Ananias
Position Offered
Go find Saul of Tarsus.
“Lord, I have heard from many about this man…”
What Was Holding Him Back?
Ananias knew Saul’s reputation for persecuting Christians and understandably questioned the wisdom of walking directly into his house.
God’s Answer
God told Ananias that Saul was His chosen instrument. Ananias went, laid hands on him, and greeted the former persecutor as “Brother Saul.”
And Then There Was Isaiah
“Here am I. Send me!”
Not everybody tried to decline the position offered by God. When Isaiah heard the Lord ask, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” his answer was immediate. No excuses. Just: Send me.