February 28, 2022 - Exodus 33-35

One person can make a difference as we have seen this week in the Ukraine. The president of that country has stood visibly defying the military strength of Russia. His actions have encouraged millions of people. A common characteristic of leaders is that they believe they can influence and make a difference in people's lives and therefore have a great impact upon their followers.

Moses had been leading his people now for many years and the people had grown accustomed to seeing Moses go before the Lord and speak to Him. Moses' influence was profound. When he was not present, the people slipped into bad habits and sinful activities. This is evident when the Lord threatened to destroy the entire nation because of their attitudes and unwillingness to follow and obey His commands (33:5).

Moses stood between the Lord and the people, interceding and being a buffer between the two rival parties. Moses pitched his tent outside the camp and made it a tabernacle of meeting between the nation and God. If a person wanted to speak with God, he would have to travel some distance to go to this tent. Moses, and his assistant Joshua, spent lengthy and consecrated times with the Lord. Moses was referred to as a friend of God and is even stated that he spoke face to face with Him (Exodus 33:11). Although Joshua's relationship with the Lord was not as intimate as Moses', his passion was to follow his leader's example and worship the Lord.

When the Lord called Moses back up the mountain, he was instructed to bring two stones like the ones he had shattered in his anger toward the people. Moses cut the rock (34:4) and ascended the mountain to hear the instructions the Lord would give concerning a covenant and the 10 commandments for the people. Upon his return from the mountain, his face shone with the glory of the Lord, and this caused fear in the people of Israel.

Parents are directed to instruct and pray for their children (Deuteronomy 6:4-7), husbands are to love their wives (Ephesians 5:28) and couples are to dwell together peaceably that their prayers may not be hindered (1 Peter 3:7). You can have a significant influence at home, work, church, and in your neighborhood. Take courage and let your face shine for the Lord!