January 5 Daily Devotional

Bible Reading

Exodus 33:12–17

Devotional

The fact that true faith is not easily satisfied is clearly illustrated by Moses’ desire for God to accompany him on his journey. Moses receives the command that the Israelites must continue their journey through the wilderness. God gives Moses the promise that an angel will go with him and the people, but that is not enough for Moses. His desire is for God alone.

True faith is not easily satisfied. Of course we cannot demand anything of the Lord for the Lord is not obliged to give us anything. Our sinfulness causes us to forfeit every right before God. That is something Moses and his people acknowledge after the people have danced around the golden calf. Our past, as well, speaks loudly of our sinfulness. We have no right to any claims for a blessing from the Lord at the beginning of this New Year. If only all of us would truly believe this.

We need the Lord Himself to come alongside us. Moses did not have enough in a promise or even with an angel from heaven. He does not dare to continue his journey through the wilderness with only an angel. For what does a promise mean if we lack communion with God? What good can an angel from heaven do without the God of heaven? Moses would rather not continue on for he needs the Lord Himself. A promise is beautiful. An angel from heaven is even more satisfying. But without the countenance of the Lord shining on us we have a poor beginning in the new year.

Do not be too easily satisfied. You need the Lord and nothing less. “And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.”

 

From The Everlasting Word by Frans Bakker, compiled and translated by Gerald R. Procee. Reformation Heritage Books and Free Reformed Publications, 2007. Used by permission. For further information, click here.