“For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.”
Context:Exodus is the second book of the Bible and recounts the story of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. In this particular chapter, Moses, the great leader of the Israelites, has been communicating with God in the Tent of Meeting. After the incident of the golden calf, God had threatened to withdraw His presence from the Israelites and send an angel to lead them, rather than going with them personally.
- The Importance of God’s Presence: In this verse, Moses is pleading with God to continue journeying with the Israelites. He recognises the profound significance of God’s presence among the people. It sets them apart and distinguishes them from all other nations. Moses understood that without God’s presence, the Israelites would be no different from any other people on earth. This highlights the centrality of God’s presence in the lives of believers today. It is through His presence that we experience His guidance, protection, and blessings.
- Grace and Favour: Moses acknowledges that God’s presence with the Israelites is a sign of His grace:The Hebrew word for “grace” is “chen,” which can also be translated as “favour” or “kindness.” This is an essential aspect of the covenant relationship between God and His people. God’s grace is not earned but given freely to those who trust and follow Him. Similarly, as Christians today, we also experience God’s grace:through His presence in our lives.
- Separated and Distinct: When God goes with His people, it sets them apart from others. The Israelites were meant to be a holy and unique nation, reflecting the character and will of God to the rest of the world. The idea of being “separated” from all other people emphasises the call for the Israelites to live in a way that demonstrates their devotion to God. As Christians, we are called to be a distinct and holy people, not conforming to the patterns of the world but following God’s commands and principles.
- The Application to Our Lives: This verse prompts us to consider the role of God’s presence in our lives. Do we seek and value God’s presence:daily, acknowledging His grace:and favour in our journey? Are we intentionally seeking to be distinct from the world around us by following God’s ways and living according to His principles? It’s a reminder that our relationship with God should be a personal and transformative one that influences the way we live and interact with others.
- Trusting God’s Promise: This passage also reveals God’s faithfulness to His promises. Despite the Israelites’ disobedience, God continued to journey with them, and eventually, He led them to the Promised Land. In our lives, we may face challenges and uncertainties, but we can trust that God’s promise to be with us always (Matthew 28:20) remains true. He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).
In conclusion, Exodus 33:16 teaches us about the significance of God’s presence:His grace:and favour, the call to be distinct and holy, and the assurance of His faithfulness. May we seek to walk with God daily, knowing that His presence empowers and sets us apart for His purposes.
