JANUARY 9: HIS PRESENCE – THE PROMISE OF REST

Moses had walked with God so closely that he understood the importance of having God’s presence in whatever he did. The Lord had assigned him to lead Israel to the land promised to their father, where they were to live and enjoy a good life. However, Israel proved severally to be a difficult and rebellious nation and God was displeased with them at different points in the journey.

At this point of our text, the Lord had withdrawn the cloudy pillar that represented His presence with them and shelter for them; so, Moses asked the Lord who then would go with them. When the Lord offered that his angel would go with them, Moses was not satisfied with that provision. He would not settle for anyone else apart from God Himself since he knew that the only satisfactory companion who could guarantee safety, victory, and success on that journey was God Himself.

With the insistence of Moses, God promised to go with them on the journey and even to give them rest. God was going to give Moses rest from his anguish and perplexity of mind caused by the rebellious attitude of his people.

Ultimately, He was going to give the entire Israelite community rest when He settled them in their resting place and settled habitation.

Like Israel, we are surrounded by so many challenges that cause us anguish and trouble our minds. Some of these include economic, health, political, and even family challenges and you may be grappling with some right now, as you are going through this devotional time.

Please take the word in our memory verse as God’s very word to you. He has promised to give you rest from all these challenges and ultimately bring you home with Him to your eternal habitation. This is what Jesus came to do as you see in Matthew 11:28-30 and Revelation 14:13. Believe it and let your heart begin to enjoy rest in Christ Jesus.

Prayer: Ask God to teach you how best to appropriate His promise and enjoy His rest