08/19/2026
Hello again everyone! The following is a summary of the awesome message Pastor Doug Case brought us this past Sunday 8-16-26. Rev. Chelsea Stilley does a remarkable job putting these together and I just wanted to share this with you, and if you get a chance to go back a watch it please do!
-Pastor George Wiggins
New Bern Church of God
Sunday’s Reflections
with Reverend Chelsea
Greetings New Bern Church of God,
Welcome to this week’s reflection. May these key takeaways and scriptures from Sunday’s message encourage you, strengthen your faith, and stay with you throughout the week ahead.
Scripture: Exodus 3:13-22
Pastor Doug Case
8/16/26
Key Thoughts:
Because the LORD is “I AM” the ever-present, all-sufficient, unchanging God who fights for and favors His people, we have no excuse to hold back.
Continuing a series on the excuses of Moses, Pastor Doug asks the question: “Who are You?” (Exodus 3:13). Moses felt unqualified because he believed he did not know God well enough to face Pharaoh or lead Israel. Many believers mirror this hesitation, they know information about God but lack personal knowledge of Him.
God answers Moses with the name “I AM,” revealing Himself as eternally present and whatever His people need. He then outlines a rescue plan, promising to fight Egypt with mighty wonders and to pour favor on Israel so they leave slavery with abundance.
The Word of God calls us to abandon excuses, deepen our relationship with God, and step into the opportunities He gives us. Be confident and know that God is with US, fights for US, and provides favor for US.
Main Points:
1. Moses’ Second Excuse: “I don’t know You well enough” (Ex 3:13)
a. Moses feared Israel would question his authority and ask, “What is His name?”
b. Just as today, many Christians who attend church and own Bibles admit, I don’t really know God.
2. God’s Self-Revelation: “I AM WHO I AM” (Ex 3:14-15)
a. “I AM” means God is present right now, not the past or future.
b. He is whatever His people need: healer, provider, comforter, guide.
c. No comparison is possible; He has no rival or equal. Because He is unchanging (Mal 3:6; Rev 1:8), we can always rely on Him.
3. God Sees, Plans, and Sets Limits on Suffering (Ex 3:16-17; Gen 15:13-14)
a. He noticed Israel’s oppression and set a 400-year limit, showing He controls both suffering and its end.
b. He promised deliverance into “a land flowing with milk and honey,” an unending supply.
4. Obedience Despite Anticipated Resistance (Ex 3:18-19)
a. God warned that Pharaoh would refuse, yet Moses still had to go.
b. Through this, we learn that we need to obey even when results look impossible, trusting God for the outcome.
5. Two Promises to Moses:
a. God Fights for His People (Ex 3:20)
He would stretch out His hand, send plagues, and break Egypt’s grip, illustrating spiritual warfare God still wages for His children.
b. God Grants Favor to His People (Ex 3:21-22)
Israel would not leave empty-handed but would “plunder the Egyptians,” carrying away silver, gold, and clothing. God can reverse years of loss in a moment.
Powerful Quote:
"Everything is dependent on God. God depends on NOTHING." – Pastor Doug Case
This Week's Challenge:
Talk to someone about church this week, even if you feel unprepared. Trust in the Spirit to give you the words and lead you.
Journal answered prayers or God’s favor on your life.
Memorize Romans 8:31. Write it on seven sticky notes and place them throughout your house, car, and/or work.
Grace & Peace,
Reverend Chelsea
P.S. Join us on Wednesday night at 7:00 PM for our Bible Study — attend online or in person at New Bern Church of God, 1230 Colony Drive, New Bern, NC 28562. We’d love to have you with us!
