Exodus 33-34 Moses Asks God

For eighty days, Moses had been fasting and praying in the presence of God.  The people were waiting anxiously after having sinned grievously.  Their sins of idolatry and unbelief had cost them the presence of God for the remainder of the trip to the Promised Land, it seemed.  They had ruined their situation by their sin.

 

Moses had moved his “Tent of Meeting” outside of their camp, where he could personally meet with God, for God didn’t want to meet where such a rebellious people were.  My commentary said, “Sin is always costly, and Israel’s sin had not only led to the death of thousands of people, but it had robbed the nation of the presence of the Lord in the camp and on their pilgrim journey to the Promised Land.  God never permits His people to sin successfully.”

 

Because God had called Moses His friend, Moses believed that he could talk with God about forgiving his people and agreeing to fulfill His promises despite the sin of His people.  “It is faith’s work to claim and challenge loving-kindness out of the roughest strokes of God,” my commentary quoted.  That was what Moses was trying to do.

 

God listened to Moses and then said, “Cut two more stone tablets …”  How Moses’ heart must have leapt for joy!  God had just decided to renew the covenant with His people, and that was the evidence Moses needed of God’s forgiveness.  God also knew how discouraged Moses had become, so He allowed him a fresh vision of Himself, and Moses’ face shined from the encounter.  The people could see this when Moses returned, and at first they were even afraid to go near him – an appropriate response of sinners in the presence of God (seen on Moses’ face).  The glory, though, would begin to fade before long.

 

Father, I so need a fresh vision of You right now!  I’m feeling so beaten down and kicked around.  Some of those I love remind me of the people in this chapter – in need of You but not even knowing it.  Lead me to guide them, Father.  Give me a closer glimpse of You again.  Show me that it will be alright soon.

 

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford