“Now when all the people saw the thunder and the flashes of lightning and the sound of the trumpet and the mountain smoking, the people were afraid and trembled, and they stood far off and said to Moses, ‘You speak to us, and we will listen; but do not let God speak to us, lest we die.'” – Exodus 20:18-19
On the one hand, the people should be commended for their profound fear, awe, and respect toward God and His presence. God is truly overwhelming and they were right to be concerned. On the other hand, God specifically invited them to be present and they let their fear keep them from having the full experience of God to which He invited them. They preferred to keep God at a safe distance rather than experience everything He had for them. Unfortunately, this became a recurring pattern throughout history.
Things SHOULD be different for New Covenant believers in Jesus Christ. God, of course, is still God – transcendent, glorious, and overwhelming. However, when Jesus died on the cross, the veil in the temple was torn from top to bottom. Separation from God is no longer necessary. In fact, in Christ, everyone who believes in Him becomes God’s temple as His Spirit dwells within them. While God is still overwhelming in His awesomeness, He’s also very near in His presence. We don’t have to keep Him at a safe distance. We don’t have to choose comfort over the deep experience and blessing of God’s presence and power.
And yet, we’re often still tempted to do so. We often fear turning our lives over to God’s Spirit and power living within us. We cherish the small comforts of familiar life over embracing the call of God to live boldly in, and for, Him. Refuse to miss out on blessing! Go deep in prayer and worship of God. Don’t say no to whatever He may be whispering to your soul, simply because you’re afraid. Take up your cross and experience all that God has prepared for you! #FollowJesus