April 23, 2024 In His Presence
Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Read: Exodus 33:14-16 His Presence
The Lord said to Moses, “Go, … Go up to a land flowing with milk and honey,
but I will not go up among you or I would consume you on the way,
for you are a stiff-necked people…”
And [Moses] said to [the Lord],
“If your presence will not go, do not bring us up from here.
For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight,
I and your people, unless you go with us? In this way, we shall be distinct,
I and your people, from every people on the face of the earth.”
Exodus 33:1, 15-16, NRSVUE
God’s anger burned at the Israelites’ continued rejection. He declared, “Go up to a land flowing with milk and honey; but I will not go up with you.” He would keep His promises to them but send a substitute as their traveling companion – His angel.
Moses boldly refused God’s offer and interceded for the Israelites. I realized that at this critical crossroads in their relationship, Moses valued his relationship with God and God’s Presence over any blessings he or the Israelites might receive from the Lord. Moses refused to go forward unless God went with him and the people.
I took years before I understood and grasped the implications of this passage – that first and foremost God wants a personal, loving relationship with each of us; that my “lands” of achievements, though flowing with milk and honey of perceived success, are meaningless without God present in them; that His Presence and companionship mean more than any blessings.
Interestingly, as bad as the people sinned, Moses’ intercession coupled with God’s compassion for His beloved children tamped God’s anger. He reversed His decision. He will do the same for us.
Reflect: Why do you think Moses was not content with receiving God’s blessings without His Presence on their journey? If forced to make a choice, would you choose to spend time with your best friend, or receive their gifts to you? What do you hunger for more: God’s blessings or God’s Presence?
Pray: Gracious God, thank You for Your unwavering promises despite my failings. As I reflect on Moses’s choice, I don’t want to go forward unless You are with me. Help me prioritize Your Presence above any and all blessings, above any and all rewards for accomplishments I am called to pursue. I hunger to know Your Presence; I yearn for an ever-deepening intimate friendship with Jesus more than anything else in my life. In his name, I pray, Amen.
By His Grace,
Gloria