Experiencing God's Presence #94

The LORD replied, “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest—everything will be fine for you.”

Exodus 33:14

God can be really confusing. Listening for His direction isn’t a matter of simply asking yes/no questions or hearing clear-cut oracles. When God speaks, He usually does so in a way that requires faith to believe it really is His voice and in a way that requires us to dig for the treasures of wisdom and guidance He has hidden for us. Finding His will for us in personal decisions can seem like a cosmic game of hide-and-seek, and usually as if He is having more fun in it than we are.

So we can relate to Moses’ bold request for more information from God. “You have been telling me . . . but you haven’t told me . . . if it is true . . . ,” he pleads in Exodus 33:12-13. His plea is as well reasoned as any child’s petition for parental permission: “Let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor” (v. 13). How could God refuse? It’s all about knowing Him better and doing the right things.

God’s response is comforting. He actually answers the plea for more information. Moses has asked who will accompany him to the Promised Land, and God says He will personally do it. Not only that, His Presence along the way will provide rest and peace. “Everything will be fine for you,” God reassures His servant. The Presence accomplishes everything Israel will need.

That’s true for us, too. We spend a lot of time focusing on what we need, but if we prioritize His Presence, what we need won’t be an issue. If He goes with us, it doesn’t matter which problems arise. He is there to take care of them. And we can rest.

Lord, You are all I need. It doesn’t matter what I face as long as You are with me. I choose to focus on You, not on my need. Please help me do that always.

From the book