Exodus 3:12 — He said, “But I will be with you.”
In ancient Hebrew culture, the concept of being "with" someone implied not only physical presence but also support, alliance, and shared purpose. The idea of God being "with" His people is an assurance of His guidance, protection, and blessing.
Moses needed to know that God was with him. For him to return to Egypt after 40 years of self-exile was a dreadful thought. Moses had fled Egypt after murdering an Egyptian. God wanted him to confront Pharaoh and demand that he free God’s people from slavery. How could Moses do this after only tending sheep for decades?
Moses had no desire to take on the responsibility of leadership. He was content being a shepherd, and he had no confidence in his ability to speak on God’s behalf. If Moses was going to obey God and execute the plan God had called him to undertake, Moses had to have God with him.
It is not different for you and me. We also should put no confidence in our flesh (Philippians 3:3). We should forget about what is behind us — past failures, past weaknesses, past condemnations, accusations, and criticisms — and strain forward to whatever lies ahead in God’s plan. God is with us to guide, protect, and lead us. We go forward by faith with the assurance of God’s promise: “I will be with you.”
11/17/2024 Devotional
"I will be with you.”
He is with me. What would he say to me?
Jesus urged his listeners to seek treasure in the Kingdom of God, for such treasure can benefit them in this life and the next one too. Do not worry, he says. Rather, trust God to provide your basic needs. To emphasize his point, he brings up the example of King Solomon, the richest man in the Old Testament. Solomon's wealth has long since vanished - and even in his prime, he was no more impressive than a common wild flower. It is better to trust in the God who lavishes care on the whole earth. Then to spend your life worrying about mo…