Power of His Presence (Part 3)

One day Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.’ But you haven’t told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, ‘I know you by name, and I look favorably on you.’ If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people.“

The Lord replied, “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest—everything will be fine for you.” Then Moses said, “If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place. How will anyone know that you look favourably on me—on me and on your people—if you don’t go with us? For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth.”

The Lord replied to Moses, “I will indeed do what you have asked, for I look favorably on you, and I know you by name.” Moses responded, “Then show me your glorious presence.”  Exodus 33:12-16 (NLT)

I love the exchanges between Moses and Almighty God! It is almost like they are two friends talking face to face. In fact, Exodus 33:11 (NLT), confirms this saying, “Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend…”

No wonder God reminded Aaron and Mariam when He said of Moses, “I speak to him face to face, clearly, and not in riddles! He sees the Lord as he is…” Numbers 12:8 (NLT)

Moses spoke as one who dreaded the thought of going forward without the assurance of God’s presence. He saw the enormity of the task of leading the people to the promised land and realised or concluded that he needed help.

He did not rely on his exploits and success with Pharaoh. He knew that only a divine help from God, by abiding in His presence will ensure safe arrival at their destination.

I think we should get to that place where we choose not to embark on a project without the assurance of God’s presence with us.

Moses faced some challenging situations with the children of Israel in the wilderness. Each time he would remember God’s promise to him: “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest”.

When Moses sought God, he did so through fervent prayer. One of the biggest problems in the church today is that people want a deep relationship with God but don’t want to pay the price for it.

Developing an intimate relationship with God takes time and effort. It doesn’t happen overnight. It calls for a sacrificial life. A life where we must be willing to spend less time in bed, cut down on the time we spend watching TV and socialising on social media. Less time on things, friends, hobbies that take much of our time.

As we make our journey through life, we need to seek and trust God. We need to allow Him to lead the way and provide guidance. “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!” Psalms 105:4 (ESV)

Failing to love and abide in His presence, could mean either completing our journey in 40 days or 40 years!

Stay blessed,

Alex