7 Moses took his tent and pitched it outside the camp, far from the camp, and called it the tabernacle of meeting. And it came to pass that everyone who sought the Lord went out to the tabernacle of meeting which was outside the camp. 8 So it was, whenever Moses went out to the tabernacle, that all the people rose, and each man stood at his tent door and watched Moses until he had gone into the tabernacle. 9 And it came to pass, when Moses entered the tabernacle, that the PILLAR OF CLOUD descended and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and the Lord talked with Moses. 10 All the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the tabernacle door, and all the people rose and worshiped, each man in his tent door. 11 So the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And he would return to the camp, but his servant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, did not depart from the tabernacle. 12 Then Moses said to the Lord, “See, You say to me, ‘Bring up this people.’ But You have not let me know whom You will send with me. Yet You have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have also found grace in My sight.’
Exodus 33:7-12
Q & A：
- Describe the preparations that Moses undertook to encounter God. What significance does experiencing God’s presence hold for you? Moses established a tent outside the camp as a designated place to meet with God. In your own life, how would you create a similar space to connect with Him? (Exodus 33:7-12)
- In what ways can the presence of God be made known to us? How ought we to respond to this presence? Why is it essential for us to cultivate a longing for His presence? What key factors can draw God’s presence to us? (Ezekiel 43:4-5; James 4:8a; Psalm 42:1-2; John 4:24; 2 Chronicles 5:13-14)
- What inner disciplines can assist us in intentionally remaining in the presence of God? How can we cultivate a close relationship with Him to more profoundly experience His presence? Take a moment to quiet your heart, open yourself to God, and seek to perceive His presence. Listen attentively to His words and take note of the insights He imparts to your heart. (Exodus 33:11b; John 15:14-15)
Summary：
This week’s sermon focuses on the profound importance of both desiring and embracing the presence of God in our lives. By examining the relationship between Moses and God, we gain insight into a powerful truth: when we take the initiative to draw near to God, He reciprocates by drawing near to us. This divine connection is essential for our spiritual growth. The presence of God is transformative; it fills our hearts with joy, grants us peace amidst insecurity, offers freedom from the burdens of sin and worry, and instills a sense of spiritual renewal within us. It illuminates our paths, dispelling the darkness that may cloud our minds and hearts. In doing so, it draws us closer to His Word, enriching our understanding and deepening our faith. Moreover, when we come together in united worship, it creates a space for His presence to manifest among us. By fully surrendering ourselves and opening our hearts to Him, we invite His Spirit to fill our gatherings. In these moments of collective worship, we experience the richness of His presence, which binds us together and strengthens our community as we together seek His guidance and love.