"And he said unto the people, Be ready against the third day: come not at your wives."
Exodus 19:15 is part of the narrative of the Israelites’ journey to Mount Sinai after their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. In this verse, God instructed Moses to prepare the people for a significant event that was about to take place.
Preparation for the Third Day:God commanded Moses to instruct the Israelites to consecrate themselves and be ready for the third day. This was a period of spiritual and physical preparation, during which the people were to purify themselves and set themselves apart for a special encounter with God. The third day marked the time when God would descend upon Mount Sinai to reveal Himself to the Israelites and establish His covenant with them.
Abstaining from Intimacy:God also instructed the people not to come near their wives during this period of preparation. This command served to emphasise the seriousness and holiness of the upcoming encounter with God. It was a temporary restriction meant to maintain a state of consecration and focus on God’s presence. By abstaining from marital relations, the people were to demonstrate their devotion and readiness to approach God with reverence.
It is important to note that this command was specific to the particular historical context and event of the Israelites’ encounter with God at Mount Sinai. It was not intended as a permanent prohibition or a general principle for all times.
This verse highlights the significance of preparation, consecration, and reverence in approaching God. It teaches us the importance of setting aside dedicated times to seek and encounter God, and to approach Him with a heart that is prepared and focused on Him.
Overall, Exodus 19:15 emphasises the need for believers to prepare themselves spiritually and mentally when seeking a deeper relationship with God, and to approach Him with awe and reverence.
