The Lord Promises to be With His People

Exodus 33:12–23
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

This passage can be divided into three sections with each introduced by the words “Moses said:”

1. Moses said he wanted God’s presence to be with them as they journeyed toward the promised land (vv. 12-13). In response, God reversed his threat and promised to go with them and give them rest (v. 14).
2. Moses said he wanted a confirmation that God would indeed go with them (vv. 15-16). Again the Lord agrees to Moses’ request and assures him that he is pleased with him (v. 17).
3. Moses said I want to see the glory of God (v. 18). This request was fulfilled as God allowed Moses to witness His coming down visibly before him in the form of a man (vv. 19-23).

Several valuable lessons can be gained from this:

1. We are unable to discover “God’s ways” for ourselves.
2. God Himself can “show” us “His way.”
3. It is only as God condescends to show us “His way” that we can really get to know Him.
4. God does listen to our prayers and answers them according to His will.

Application

Just as with Moses, the Lord frequently has to test us to see where and in whom our real confidence lies. I don’t necessarily like to be tested but know it is for my good and God’s glory!