Heart-to-Heart

“The Lord replied, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.’” Exodus 33:14 (NIV)

Not long after the Israelites had fled Egypt and entered the wilderness, Moses entered the tent of meeting, the sanctuary where he would seek the Lord's guidance. Filled with uncertainty and the weight of leadership heavy on his heart, Moses began another heart-to-heart with Yahweh. Speaking honestly and earnestly, he reflected the trust and closeness of a beloved friend, saying “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’” (v. 12)

Though Moses was a great leader and had a special closeness with God, his heart carried the same uncertainty and longings we feel today: the need for guidance, the reassurance of favor, and the comfort of God’s nearness. In this intimate exchange, God responded with a promise that echoes across time: “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” 

Just as Moses sought God's presence to guide the children of Israel in the wilderness, we are reminded of God's promise to dwell with His people throughout the ages. This promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in the gift of the Holy Spirit. Though not explicitly named in this passage, Yahweh’s assurance foreshadows the Spirit’s role: “My Presence will go with you.” This abiding presence, seen in Moses' intimate encounter, points us to the Holy Spirit, who now dwells within us, guiding, comforting, and empowering us daily.

Today, God continues to extend this promise to us. We, too, are invited into heart-to-heart conversations with the Lord, where we can trust in the Spirit's guidance, comfort, and empowerment. In our sacred spaces—a quiet room, a park bench, or even the car—we can bring our hearts to Him in honest dialogue. And like Moses, we can leave with the assurance that His presence never leaves us, offering rest for our souls and strength for the journey.

Where can you create your own tent of meeting today? What burdens or questions do you need to bring before God in an open heart-to-heart? How can you lean into God's Presence and allow it to guide, comfort, and empower you?

Lord, thank You for inviting us into heart-to-heart conversations with You. Like Moses, we come before You earnestly, seeking guidance, reassurance, and the comfort of Your presence. Help us to grow in trust and intimacy with You, to feel Your Spirit guiding us, and to rest in the promise that You will never leave us.

Teach us to quiet our hearts, listen for Your voice, and bring our burdens and joys to You in openness and faith. May we leave each moment with You refreshed, strengthened, and assured of Your unending love. Be with us as we journey forward, and let Your presence be our source of peace and rest, today and always.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim