How God presents Himself (1)

Thursday 24 June 2021

How God presents Himself (1)

“Moses said : Let me therefore see Your glory !” Exodus 33. 18

Developing a lasting and deep relationship with another person, whether economically, friendly or in love, requires getting to know the other person's personality. Superficial knowledge will never lead to an intense relationship capable of overcoming difficulties. Moses had already met God near a burning bush (Exodus 3. 6). He then unveiled His name to him : “I am he who is” (v. 14), but that was no longer enough for the prophet. He wanted to go further in his knowledge of God, which was legitimate since he wanted to discover divine plans for him and for the people he had led. If someone comes to you and gives you their business card, you find out their name, profession and maybe their phone number and address, but that doesn't allow you to understand their personality, dreams, ambitions nor his character. Moses therefore needed to become more intimate with God. So he asked God to reveal His plans to him (v. 13), but God did not comply with his request. In fact He explains to her that His presence by his side should be enough for him : “I will walk with you Myself... I will also fulfill this word that I have spoken, if you have obtained My favor, and I know you by name.” (V. 14, 17). An answer that does not really satisfy Moses! He pushes further : “Let me therefore see Your glory !” Guess the fun of God when He hears the prophet's bold request ! The divine reply is fascinating : "I will cause My goodness to pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before you." (v. 19). So repeating His name, then "I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious..." In other words, "Moses, it is I who decides and there you overstep the line ! No one can see Me and survive such a revelation !”

Source (His Word for Today)