“Believing an Invisible God” Pt 2 of 2:
Exodus 33 explains the irritation God had with the impatience the Israelites showed when Moses didn’t return as quickly as they wanted. Thinking he wasn’t coming back, they convinced Aaron to make a golden calf for them to worship. We may criticize these people, but aren’t we at times guilty of doing the same things when we get tired of waiting on God to answer our prayers or do a certain thing.
God promised Israel He’d lead them to the Promise Land. But after turning to their false gods so quickly, He informed Moses, “an angel will lead you, but I’m not going with you” (33:1-6). But Moses couldn’t stand the thought of departing if it meant they would be without Him. He made it clear, “If your presence doesn’t go with us, don’t send us… (15-16).
Out of all the things Moses could have asked, he desired the presence of God more than anything else. Moses understood the impact of His presence not only then, but in the future. He wasn’t going unless God was with him.
When we truly chase after God, we chase after His presence and glory. When we allow Him to captivate our heart and surrender to Him completely, our lives are never the same. Allowing the presence of God to permeate your life will distinguish you among the crowd, and people can’t help but be drawn to you. You will be a light in the darkness.
You may not see Him physically, but when by faith your life and every situation is put into God’s hands, you’ll begin noticing the evidence of God is all around you. This doesn’t mean you’ll never have to face problems again. It doesn’t mean life will always be easy, but it does mean, never again will you have to face or go through anything alone.
The Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name” (Ex 33:17). As believers, we have a Promised Land and it’s called Heaven. Until then, God’s presence within us is also a promise. Acknowledge Him. Trust Him. Lean on His promises. Look around and like Moses you too will say, “I have seen (and can see) Him who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:27 NKJV).
Pastor Carnes
