âAnd He said, âMy presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.ââ Exodus 33:14 (ESV)

Presence is defined as the state or fact of existing or being in a particular place. The presence of a loved one brings joy, comfort, and assurance. Likewise, the presence of different people stirs different emotions, depending on the situation.
Here, God promises that He will go with Moses and with His people throughout their journey to the Promised Land.
Just before this passage, the Israelites sinned by making and worshiping a golden calfâan abomination to the Lord. God was angry with the people and declared that He would not go with them, for His holy presence would consume them because of their sin. When the people heard this, they mourned deeply.
Moses then interceded for the people, pleading for Godâs favor. In response, God gave Moses instructions and promised that His presence would go with them. Moses replied firmly, âIf Your presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.â
Moses understood that the presence of God brings provision, protection, strength, and assurance of victory. He was not willing to move forward without it. Though he was a well-known leaderâleading millions of people, guiding them through the Red Sea and the wilderness, and highly respected by the nationâMoses knew that his own presence was not enough. To the people, Moses represented guidance, but Moses himself sought the presence of God, knowing it was the true source of everything.
The Word of God encourages us that His presence will be with us wherever we go. Godâs presence becomes a pillar of fire and a cloud along our journey when our path is aligned with His will. We cannot plan to go to unholy or unworthy places and expect Godâs presence to bless our choices. He may still follow, but His holiness can expose and consume what is not surrendered to Him.
The best place to be is under the presence of God. There we find rest and peace. His presence gives step-by-step instruction for the journey.
Do not worry so much about the destinationâenjoy the journey with His presence. Invite His presence into your workplace, into that hospital room, into the chaotic situation you feel trapped in. Do not go anywhere where the presence of God is absent; that is the most dangerous place to be.
Prayer:
Lord, we desire Your presence above all else. Do not let us move without You. Lead us, guide us, and give us rest as we walk in alignment with Your will. May Your presence be our peace and our strength every step of the way. Amen.








