His Presence

Bible Reading: Exodus 33:1 - 16

 

The roads of life are seldom smooth. There are seasons when the journey is long and dreary, and it makes us wonder if we walk alone. At times, the burdens feel heavier than our strength can bear. Yet even in those lonely valleys, God walks beside us. He strengthens our weary souls, guides us, and reminds us that His Presence never leaves us, His children. 

 

God had assigned Moses the task of bringing the people of Israel into the promised land; the way ahead was unknown and filled with many dangers.  So, before leaving Sinai, Moses asked the Lord for His Presence to go with him.  God had earlier promised to send an angel with Israel. Moses now pressed God on this point, and said, "If Your Presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here" (Exodus 33:15).  And God answered Moses’ prayer. 

 

Moses understood the difference between outward blessings and the blessing of God’s Presence.  If God is present with us, the Psalmist says we can run against a troop and even leap over a wall (Psalm 18:29). Moses knew this, so he asked God for His Presence to go with him. 

 

The hurdles of life can be overcome when Jesus is with us as our companion.  The Gospel does not promise a road without difficulties.  It is through the hardest paths that God deepens our faith and draws us closer to Himself.  So the risen Lord promises to walk with us every step of the way.   Just as He joined the disciples on the Emmaus road, He joins us today in the midst of turmoil, grief, and mourning.  He joins us today in the midst of uncertainty and our disappointments.  He does not wait until we arrive at a destination to reveal Himself to us.  

 

My friend, like Moses, we must learn to pray for His Presence before we start the day and before we start anything.  Before we ask for provision, ask for His Presence.   Before you ask God for outcomes or blessings , ask for His Presence.  This is a lesson for us today.  Before you start the day, the week, or the month, ask for His Presence.  Jesus is not just a Saviour who died in our place.  He is the Lord who rose again and walks with us today.  

 

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, thank You for promising to be with me always.  Help me seek Your Presence each day by spending time with You in reading, meditating on God’s Word, and praying.  Amen.

 

 

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