5 Things That May Be Holding You Back From Your Purpose
Has God ever called you to do something, but you felt completely inadequate? You may lack the talent, skills, education, or experience, yet you know He’s calling you. In this article, we’ll look at What’s Holding You Back From Your Purpose and how God provides solutions for each one.
We’ll learn this lesson from the life of Moses, specifically from his encounter with God at Mount Sinai. You may find that Moses’ excuses sound a lot like yours.
The Backstory: Moses at Mount Sinai
Before the Ten Commandments, Moses had another life-changing moment at Mount Sinai. After killing an Egyptian, Moses fled to the desert for 40 years. He likely believed God was done with him.
But God pursued Moses in the wilderness. In Exodus 3, God appears in a burning bush and calls Moses to lead Israel out of Egypt. Egypt, for Moses, was the place of his greatest failure, and now God was sending him back there.
Key truth: The place of your greatest failure can become the place of your greatest fruitfulness.
1. “I’m Not Good Enough” – The Promise of God’s Presence
But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?”
God’s answer was simple: “I will be with you” (Exodus 3:12). We often focus on our own ability, forgetting that God’s presence is the deciding factor. The real question isn’t “Who am I?” — it’s “Who is God?”
2. “I Don’t Know Enough” – The Promise of God’s Preparation
Moses worried about not having the right answers.
Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I am who I am.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel: ‘I am has sent me to you.’”
God doesn’t wait for you to be ready. He equips you as you obey. You don’t need a perfect plan, just a willing heart.
3. “I Might Fail” – The Promise of God’s Provision
Fear of failure stops many before they even try. Moses asked, “What if they don’t believe me?” (Exodus 4:1). God simply said, “What is in your hand?” (Exodus 4:2).
God can use what you already have and combine it with His power. Your role is obedience, His role is the outcome.
4. “I Have a Weakness” – The Promise of God’s Power
Moses told God, “I’m not good with words” (Exodus 4:10). God reminded him, “Who makes a person’s mouth?… I will be with you as you speak” (Exodus 4:11–12).
...“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”...
God’s strength shows up best when we acknowledge our weakness.
5. “I Don’t Want to Do It” – The Promise of God’s People
When Moses pleaded for God to send someone else (Exodus 4:13), God provided Aaron to help him (Exodus 4:14).
God rarely calls you to fulfill His mission alone. He places the right people in your life to complement your strengths and cover your weaknesses.
Final Encouragement
The same God who called Moses calls you. If you let excuses win, you may miss your purpose. Remember, What’s Holding You Back From Your Purpose is not barriers to God; they’re opportunities for Him to show His power through you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does God still call people like He called Moses?
Yes. God calls people today to serve Him in many ways—ministry, business, family leadership, and more. His methods may differ, but His purpose remains.
What if I have a past failure like Moses?
God specializes in using broken people. Many biblical figures, including Moses, David, and Paul, had serious failures before God used them mightily.
How can I overcome feeling “not good enough”?
Focus on God’s presence, not your ability. As God told Moses, “I will be with you” (Exodus 3:12).
What if I truly don’t have the skills?
God equips those He calls. Skills can be learned, but God’s calling comes with His supernatural empowerment.