And He said, “Behold, I am making a covenant. Before all your people I will do marvels, such as have not been created in all the earth or in any nation. And all the people among whom you are shall see the work of the Lord, for it is an awesome thing that I will do with you.”
Exodus 34:10
Imagine the thoughts that must have been racing through Moses’ mind as he sat in awe and wonder while God proclaimed His intentions to renew His covenant with His people. God had just reminded Moses of His great attributes of abounding love, faithfulness, and justice. He had reminded Moses of His mercy and grace which led Moses to bow in worship as he acknowledged the stubbornness and sins of the people. Moses knew that the people of Israel were strong willed and prone to failure, but he still sought favor with the Lord as their mediator. If I were Moses, I don’t know that I’d be as apt to pursue favor for the people who continually caused me so much grief. However, Moses strove to live for the glory of God knowing that God’s covenant and blessing would set them apart as it showcased His greatness.
Instead of pushing the people away and washing His hands of their messes, God desired to form a covenant with them. This blessing wasn’t meant as a reward for the people or something for them to take personal pride in. This covenant and the things God would do through His people was meant to glorify His name. He had things in store that were greater than Moses could ever have imagined in that moment on the mountain. These things would unfold throughout the years to come as part of God’s plan. Yes, the people had moments of doubt where they wondered if God would actually hold true to his promises and covenant, but they needn’t worry, because God is faithful.
Just as God was faithful in His covenant with the Israelites, He is faithful in the new covenant through Jesus. Just as the old covenant was to bring glory to God’s name so is the new covenant that we share in as believers. We can take no pride in our salvation and most of the time are just as obnoxious as the Israelites in our complaints and questioning of God’s plan. However, God is merciful, loving, and just in the provision He made for our sinful hearts. May we have eyes to see the great and glorious things that He is doing all around us. May we strive to live for His glory. I pray that we are reminded of God’s faithfulness and that we live in peace knowing that we are made in the image of God with the purpose of serving and glorifying His name.
VC Devotionals 