Part One
Moses spoke to the Lord God. He remembered what was said. He was to lead the people, Not knowing what lies ahead. “Lord, You know me and my name. You have found grace in my sight. Now, if You are pleased with me, Teach me Your ways that are right. “Then I will know You, O Lord. I want to walk in Your ways. Remember us, Your people, And guide us all of our days.” The Lord replied, “My Presence Will lead, guide, and be with you. I will also give you rest For My promises are true.” Moses replied, “Go with us, Or we will not move along! How will people know we’re blessed For Your Presence makes us strong?” And the Lord said with delight, “I will do that very thing. I’ll be with you as you asked For I’m pleased with all you bring. “My people are called by Me, And I know you by your name. Because I am pleased with you, My grace outpoured I’ll proclaim.” (Based on Exodus 33:12-17)
It is God’s presence that made the Israelites different from those nations around them. Without God, they were lonely, lost wanderers. With Him, they were following their Mighty Leader in a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.
Moses pleads with God to go with them into the promised land, “If your presence will not go with me, 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? Is it not in your going with us, so that we are distinct, I and your people, from every other people on the face of the earth?” ( Exodus 33:15-16)
God will never disappoint us when we ask for His presence. Yes, there may be fear-filled times where we don’t feel secure, but we can take heart in knowing that He will never leave us! It is God’s presence that makes the journey of life bearable. Our God knows us personally! He knows our names and cares for our every need. Why would we want to go anywhere without Him?
Moses spoke with God “face to face, as one speaks to a friend” (verse 11.) Now, because of Christ, this privilege is ours also. Jesus says, “You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants…Instead, I have called you friends.” (John 15:14-15.)
Let us seek Him every moment, every day.
