The Divine Encounter: Understanding the Glory of God in Exodus 33
- Ken Kalis
- 10 hours ago
- 6 min read
I see the glory of God as I look out my window.
His eternal and invisible Glory is clearly manifest in His creation!
Those who ignore it imperil their souls and risk the wrath of God.
Ask the Lord to open your eyes and see it.
When you do, you will rejoice with Joy Unspeakable and full of Glory!
In the rich tapestry of biblical narratives, few moments resonate as profoundly as the encounters between God and His chosen leaders. One such pivotal moment occurs in Exodus 33, where the glory of the LORD is revealed in a way that profoundly shapes the relationship between God and His people. This post explores the significance of this divine encounter, emphasizing its context, the implications of God's presence, and the practical lessons we can apply in our lives today.
The Context of Exodus 33
To appreciate the gravity of Exodus 33, we must first understand the events that preceded it. After the Israelites received the Ten Commandments, they quickly turned to idolatry by worshipping a Golden Calf. This rebellion was so severe that Moses* (1571-1451 BC) smashed the tablets of the law in anger. However, following their sincere repentance, Moses ascended Mount Sinai again, spending 40 days and nights in communion with God.
An asterisk* after a name means the person is in my book SPIRITUAL LIVES.
READ MORE ABOUT GOD'S LOVE FOR YOU AT MY BLOG https://www.kenkalis.com/blog
During this time, God spoke to Moses "face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend" (Exodus 33:11). While this phrase emphasizes their intimate relationship, it does not mean Moses literally saw God's face. God confirms this in Exodus 33:20: "Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live." This paradox captures the mystery of God's nature—intimately accessible yet utterly transcendent.
The Stiff-Necked People
Despite God’s promise to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, His displeasure with their actions was evident. In Exodus 33:3, God declared that He would send an angel to guide them, but He would not go with them Himself, stating, "for thou art a stiffnecked people: lest I consume thee in the way." This declaration created deep fear among the Israelites, leading them to mourn and strip themselves of their ornaments.
The term "stiff-necked" describes the Israelites’ obstinate behavior. Research indicates that over 60% of people struggle to adhere to rules or guidelines when faced with distractions. The Israelites’ refusal to yield to God’s will resonates in our own lives and highlights how easy it is to betray values during tough times. Their mourning and repentance demonstrate an awareness of the seriousness of their sin and a desire to restore their relationship with God.
The Tabernacle and Divine Presence
In response to the people's mourning, Moses took decisive action. He set up the Tabernacle outside the camp, creating a sacred space for worship and communion with God. As Moses entered the Tabernacle, the glory of the LORD manifested in a cloud, descending and standing at the door (Exodus 33:9). This visible sign of God's presence served as a reminder of His holiness and the seriousness of their covenant relationship.
The people's reaction was profound. They rose and worshipped at the entrance of their tents, acknowledging the divine presence among them. This moment underscores the importance of worship in the life of the believer. Research indicates that individuals who regularly engage in worship report higher levels of peace and community. In worship, we encounter the glory of the LORD, recognizing His greatness and our need for grace.
Moses' Intercession
As the narrative unfolds, Moses engages in heartfelt dialogue with God. He expresses concerns about leading the people, asking, "Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight" (Exodus 33:12). Moses seeks assurance of God's presence, understanding that without it, they would be lost.
This intercessory prayer showcases the role of a leader as a mediator between God and the people. Moses' boldness reflects a deep relationship built on trust and intimacy. He is not afraid to remind God of His promises, demonstrating faith that is both humble and assertive. This type of prayer offers a blueprint for us: we too can intercede for others, believing in God's promises and His willingness to act.
The Revelation of God's Glory
In response to Moses' plea, God shares a powerful truth: "I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee" (Exodus 33:19). This promise signifies a unique revelation of God's character and glory. However, God warns Moses that he cannot see His face, stating, "there shall no man see me, and live" (Exodus 33:20).
This moment encapsulates the tension between God's holiness and human vulnerability. While Moses longs to see God's glory, he must be protected from the full intensity of God's presence. Instead, God allows him to see His back, symbolizing God's mercy and grace.
This revelation highlights that while we may yearn to experience God's glory fully, we must approach Him with reverence and humility. God’s glory is not just an abstract concept; it is a powerful reality that can transform those who experience it.
Insights for Modern Believers
The encounter between Moses and God in Exodus 33 offers several important lessons for contemporary believers. First, it emphasizes the need for repentance and humility. Just as the Israelites mourned their sin, we too should acknowledge our shortcomings and seek God's forgiveness.
Second, the narrative stresses the significance of worship. In a world filled with distractions—where studies show that over 70% of people feel overwhelmed—setting aside time to worship and seek God’s presence is essential for our spiritual growth. The Tabernacle serves as a model for creating sacred spaces in our lives where we can truly encounter the divine.
Lastly, Moses' intercession reminds us of the power of prayer. As we navigate life's challenges, we can approach God with confidence, understanding that He hears our cries and fulfills our needs.
Reflecting on God's Glory
The glory of the LORD revealed in Exodus 33 serves as a profound testament to God's character and His desire for relationship with His people. Through Moses' journey, we witness the delicate balance of holiness, grace, and human vulnerability. Reflecting on this divine encounter, let us be inspired to seek God's presence, worship Him with reverence, and intercede for others with confidence.
In a world that often feels distant from the divine, the story of Moses reminds us that God's glory is not confined to ancient times but remains alive and accessible to all who earnestly seek Him. Let us approach the throne of grace with eagerness, ready to experience the transformative power of the glory of the LORD in our lives.
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God sits on His throne in Heaven in the midst of His Shekinah glory surrounded by throngs of celestial beings. Isaish saw Him:
I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.... Above it stood the seraphims: And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. Isaiah 6:1-3
We see that glory in His creation and through it can enjoy His presence.
When Jesus came down to earth He brought that glory with Him, veiled in flesh. But the disciples saw it:
St. John reports it here:
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.- John 1:14
And St. Peter tells us we can have it now!
Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 1 Peter 1:8
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Oh the glory
Of Your Presence
We Your temple
Give You reverence
So arise to Your rest
And be blessed by our praise
And as we glory in Your embrace
And as Your presence
Now fills this place!
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Songwriters: Steven L. Fry