Three Insights from Moses about God’s Presence:

Moses Valued God’s Presence

Go up to this land that flows with milk and honey. But I will not travel among you, for you are a stubborn and rebellious people. If I did, I would surely destroy you along the way.” 4 When the people heard these stern words, they went into mourning and stopped wearing their jewelry and fine clothes. 5 For the Lord had told Moses to tell them, “You are a stubborn and rebellious people. If I were to travel with you for even a moment, I would destroy you. Remove your jewelry and fine clothes while I decide what to do with you.” 6 So from the time they left Mount Sinai, the Israelites wore no more jewelry or fine clothes.
—Exodus 33:3-6

“If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place. 16 How will anyone know that you look favorably on me—on me and on your people—if you don’t go with us? For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth.” 17 “I will indeed do what you have asked, for I look favorably on you, and I know you by name.” 18 Moses responded, “Then show me your glorious presence.”
—Exodus 33:15-16

Moses Practiced God’s Presence
It was Moses’ practice to take the Tent of Meeting and set it up some distance from the camp. Everyone who wanted to make a request of the Lord would go to the Tent of Meeting outside the camp. 8 Whenever Moses went out to the Tent of Meeting, all the people would get up and stand in the entrances of their own tents. They would all watch Moses until he disappeared inside.
—Exodus 33:7-8

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
—Jeremiah 29:13

As he went into the tent, the pillar of cloud would come down and hover at its entrance while the Lord spoke with Moses…Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.
—Exodus 33:9, 11a