Despondency, a state of low spirits caused by loss of hope or courage, is a condition that can be observed in various biblical narratives. One notable instance is found in the life of Moses when he was sent on his mission to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. This entry explores the despondency Moses experienced and the divine response that followed.

Moses' Initial Reluctance and Despondency

Moses, chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, initially exhibited reluctance and despondency when called to this monumental task. 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 self-doubt reflects a deep sense of inadequacy and fear, common elements of despondency.

Further, in Exodus 4:10 , Moses expresses his concern about his speaking abilities: "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' focus on his perceived weaknesses highlights his despondent state, as he doubts his capacity to fulfill God's command.

God's Assurance and Provision

In response to Moses' despondency, God provides reassurance and promises His presence. In Exodus 3:12 , God declares, "I will surely be with you," offering Moses the assurance that he will not face this mission alone. This divine promise is a critical turning point, as it shifts the focus from Moses' limitations to God's omnipotence and faithfulness.

Moreover, God equips Moses with signs and wonders to validate his mission. In Exodus 4:2-9 , God instructs Moses to perform miracles, such as turning his staff into a serpent and making his hand leprous and then restoring it. These signs serve to bolster Moses' confidence and demonstrate God's power to the Israelites and Egyptians alike.

The Role of Aaron

To further alleviate Moses' despondency, God appoints Aaron, Moses' brother, as his spokesperson. In Exodus 4:14-16 , God says, "Is not Aaron the Levite your brother? I know that he can speak well... You shall speak to him and put the words in his mouth; I will help both of you speak and will teach you what to do." Aaron's role as a supportive partner underscores God's understanding of Moses' emotional state and His provision for Moses' needs.

Moses' Growth and Leadership

Despite his initial despondency, Moses grows into a formidable leader through his reliance on God. His journey from despondency to faith is marked by his increasing trust in God's promises and his obedience to divine instructions. As Moses leads the Israelites through the wilderness, his relationship with God deepens, and his leadership is characterized by humility and perseverance.

Conclusion

Moses' experience of despondency when sent on his mission to the Israelites serves as a profound example of how God addresses human frailty with compassion and provision. Through divine assurance, empowerment, and the support of others, God transforms Moses' despondency into a testament of faith and leadership.Exodus 4:1,10,13
And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor listen to my voice: for they will say, The LORD has not appeared to you.
Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 6:12
And Moses spoke before the LORD, saying, Behold, the children of Israel have not listened to me; how then shall Pharaoh hear me, who am of uncircumcised lips?
Nave's Topical Index

Paul's Epistles; his Collection for the Poor Saints at Jerusalem ...
... in this embarrassing position he was not overwhelmed with despondency. ... He was now
sent back to Colosse with ... pilfered, [150:3] and entreats his correspondent to ...
/.../killen/the ancient church/chapter ix pauls epistles his.htm

The Faith of Moses.
... not the consciousness of his own mission lead Moses ... afterwards he is still loath
to be sent. ... we failed to recognise the faith that underlies his despondency. ...
/.../the expositors bible the epistle to the hebrews/chapter xii the faith of.htm

Philippians ii. 19-21
... That is, this despondency I now cast off. ... relates that Christ said to His disciples,
"When I sent you forth ... To show His own power, and to prove that in after ...
/.../homily ix philippians ii 19-21.htm

The Last Interview of Paul with the Elders of Ephesus.
... raises it from a state of despondency, and inspires ... Epistles to Timothy, which were
sent to him ... heretics "grievous wolves," referring to his former description ...
/.../dick/lectures on the acts of the apostles/lecture xxiv the last interview.htm

Appeal to the Christian Women of the South
... who sent unto the Roman Governor when he was set ... in prayer for deliverance, just
as the Israelites did when ... of the hard bondage," think you that his ear is ...
/.../an appeal to the christian women of the south/appeal to the christian women.htm

Rom. xi. 7
... parable, He Himself said, "I am not sent but unto ... how he raises up even him in his
despondency, and humbles ... may be thus exhibited: God in his gracious promise ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xix rom xi 7.htm

What are capital sins? | GotQuestions.org

Is the concept of a prayer journal biblical? | GotQuestions.org

How should a Christian woman deal with menopause? | GotQuestions.org

Despondency: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus