Read Exodus 33:12-23

“Then [Moses] said to [the LORD], “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here.” — Exodus 33:15

What an extraordinary statement of faith and humility from Moses. As Moses and the nation of Israel rested along the boundaries of Mount Sinai, having been brought up out of the land of Egypt by the mighty hand of God, Moses might have given way to pride. No doubt, the temptation to think that they were no longer in need of God’s presence would come upon them.

In fact, this very temptation would eventually give birth to sin. Israel, under Joshua’s command, went to fight the small city of Ai without God’s presence and was embarrassingly defeated, although Ai was small (see Joshua 7:3-6).

But Moses had not so learned Christ! Since the first day God gently appeared to him from the blazing bush which didn’t burn, Moses knew he utterly needed God’s presence with him. Like a nursing child needs her mother, Moses desperately needed the LORD. Wherever Moses would lead Israel out, Moses wanted the assurance that God was near. So much so, that Moses even refused to move if God’s presence would not go with them.

“If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here. (Exodus 33:15)

Church — there is so much wisdom in the heart of this verse. How often do we get a taste of triumph provided by the Holy Spirit, and then soon after forget we need Him for the next victory?

“Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh?” (Galatians 3:3)

We must capture Moses’ heart for God. “Oh, Lord we need Thee, every hour we need Thee!” Is it any coincidence that David is the only man in Scripture who was undefeated in battle, and who was also a man after God’s own heart? Certainly not! Instead, we find David seeking the Lord at every turn, for every battle, regardless of the odds.

Beloved, the most beautiful part of this is that our Lord Jesus has already promised His presence to you, or have you forgotten what our Lord said? —

“Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” (Matthew 28:20)

He is near to you and with you! Therefore cast all of your cares upon Him! (see 1 Peter 5:7) Refuse to take a step without Him! (see Hebrews 12:1-2) Never presume victory apart from Him! (see Romans 8:37) And always find your rest in Him! (see Matthew 11:28)

“…For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say: “The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”” (Hebrews 13:5–6)