Today's Passage: Exodus 33

How do you define "friend"? In today's chapter, it feels a bit like Moses is still cooling his own anger at the Israelites, pitching his tent far outside the camp, far from the scene of the "golden calf" crime. The children of Israel watched with awe and interest as Moses went to the Tabernacle, seeing signs from Heaven that he was truly meeting with the Most High.

In verse 11 it says "...the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend." One might even imagine (as friends would be) that the Lord told Moses, "You really lost it when you saw that golden calf, didn't you..." and maybe Moses replying, "Yeah, they're just lucky I'm not YOU..."

On a more serious (scholarly note), "face to face" does not mean Moses looked upon His face, but instead means more of a unified "real time" conversation. A true dwelling together and fellowship, not just "here's what I need" then back to his "regular" life.

That constant indwelling, fellowship and presence is what Christ's death and subsequent bringing of the Holy Spirit into the heart and life of each believer who accepts Him gives us. The children of Israel were terrified of what they saw of the Lord; most of them did not understand how much more of a relationship they could have if they would only be obedient.

That aspect has not changed in thousands of years. He is the same yesterday today and forever. He always and still desires a constant and intimate relationship with us.

At least the children of Israel realized something we don't always fully reckon. The Lord originally said He would not be in their midst as they left Sinai. They mourned greatly, recognizing that without the Lord, they would not have the confidence to defeat their enemies and take possession of their promised land. Moses was able to intercede for them and receive through grace an assurance that the Lord would be with them and give them rest.

Today's prayer: In that challenging balance of stepping out in faith and waiting for confirmation of the Lord's direction, may you not step out without His blessing and presence.