Presence: April 14th

Exodus 33:7-11 provides us with a vivid glimpse into the intimate relationship between Moses and God during the time of the Israelites' wilderness journey. At this point in the narrative, the Israelites have recently committed idolatry by worshiping the golden calf. In response to their disobedience, God informs Moses that He will not personally accompany them to the Promised Land, as His presence among them would likely result in their destruction due to their stiff-neckedness.

Whenever Moses enters the Tent of Meeting, the pillar of cloud—the visible manifestation of God's presence—descends and stands at the entrance, signaling that God is present and ready to speak with Moses. During these encounters, Moses speaks with God "face to face, as one speaks to a friend," highlighting the intimacy and closeness of their relationship.


Exodus 33:7-11

1. What is the presence of God?
2. How do we experience Gods presence?
3. 
   
   1. Intentionally
   2. Expectantly 

1. What do you think is significant about the setting described in these verses? Why do you think Moses set up the tent outside the camp?
2. What do you think the purpose of the "Tent of Meeting" was? Why do you think Moses used it to commune with God?
3. How would you describe the relationship between Moses and God based on these verses? What do you think this relationship teaches us about our relationship with God?
4. What significance do you think the pillar of cloud descending and standing at the entrance of the tent holds? How do you think the Israelites would have reacted to seeing this?
5. In verse 11, it says that "the LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend." What do you think it means to speak to God "face to face" in this context? How does this relate to our own experiences of seeking God's presence?
6. Can you think of a time when you felt particularly close to God, like Moses did in these verses? What was that experience like, and how did it impact your relationship with God
7. How can we apply the principles from these verses to our own lives today? How can we seek God's presence and cultivate a deeper relationship with Him?