The Lord replied, My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest (Exodus 33:14 NIV).
One of the most challenging realities of living for Jesus is that it can be a very lonely adventure. There will be other Christ followers around you, of course. And, you will find a community that is serious about the things of God. But what you and I need to come to terms with is that God doesnt always offer us other people as a source of comfort as we walk out our own journey of life.
Instead what He offers us is Himself. Moses finds this out first hand in Exodus 33:12-17. Take a moment to read these verses.
This passage begins with Moses questioning God. He reminded God that He had called him to lead the nation of Israel but had yet to bring him the help he needed.
Gods response was very interesting. Instead of offering to bring him another leader or even a friend, God told him that the presence of God would be with Moses and that God would give him rest (v14). God then went on to tell Moses that He was pleased with him and knew Moses by name (v.17).
So how does this apply to us?
Realize, when we feel alone, God offers us the same things He offered Moses. He promises to be with us and to give us rest. He tells us that He is pleased with us and that He knows us by name.
Think about these truths for a moment:
1. The Almighty God of the Universe promises to be with you.
He promises to be with you whether life is exciting or dull, whether you are being righteous or vile. He chooses to be with you.
2. He offers you rest.
The Creator and Sustainer of all things tells you that in Him you can find a place to let your fears, stresses and hurts slow down and be restored.
3. He is pleased with you.
Say out loud, God is pleased with me. Seriously, say it out loud. Do you believe it? It is true - God is pleased with you right now, this very second. The God who sits on the throne above all the world is pleased with YOU. How can this be true you ask? Its true not because of what you do but because of what Christ has done for you. To say God is not pleased with you says you dont believe Jesus death really did anything. Accept it; its true. He is pleased with you.
4. Finally, He knows you by name.
Out of the 6 billion people on the earth, He knows you specifically. Whether you ever feel noticed or special, God knows you personally, specifically and intimately you are significant to Him.
So now what?
Realize you are not alone. Take a few minutes to ponder what these four truths mean. Which one means the most to you today? Jot it down on a scrap of paper and take it with you through the day. God is screaming, You are not alone. Choose to take the time to hear his answer.
Dont forget
You are wildly and passionately loved by God.
You have been uniquely and distinctly made to glorify God.
-Danny Orrick
© 2004. Kingdom Building Ministries.