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In His Presence – Part 2

“...My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”¹

   Moses knew full well what it meant to be in God’s presence. In the beginning of his journey to leading God’s people out of Egypt, God spoke to him through a non-consuming burning bush. (Ex. 3:1-6) From that moment, Moses knew the presence of God would be with him and he took comfort in that fact. He trusted God’s presence to lead them when the Lord acted as a tour-guide through the wilderness in the form of a cloud by day and fire by night. (Ex. 13:21-22) God’s presence continued with Moses and Moses relied on that Divine presence to guide him as he led God’s people. Moses sought God’s presence on such a regular basis that they literally became friends! (Ex. 33:11) And so, because of that friendship, when God told Moses that it was time for him to pack up and lead the people out of Sinai, Moses quickly reacted by saying: Don’t send us away unless you are planning to go with us! “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here.” (Ex. 33:15) But, God had already assured him, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” (Ex. 33:14)

   The friendship between God and Moses was left to us as an example so that we, God’s people, might also desire to seek God’s presence. What an honor to be among God’s friends! Let’s ask God today to “Create a clean heart” in us, so that we might have full access to His presence. In today's time, we find ourselves so rushed, not having a single moment to spare, but God told Moses that in His presence he would have rest. So, why not allow ourselves a few moments every day to spend time with God and in turn find rest in His presence that fills us with joy! (Ps. 51:10-12, Ps. 16:11)

Suggested prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, what a privilege to be called your friend. I desire to be in your presence, and I ask that you be with me and guide me and that your presence not depart from me. Allow others to see in me that I have been in your presence. Don’t let me take one step today where your presence does not go with me. Help me to find rest in spending time with you. I humbly ask this in Jesus’ Holy name, Amen.

1. Exodus 33:14.