Guest Blog Author: Maxine Holden
“I Myself,” the Lord answered, “will go along, to give you rest.”- Exodus 33:14
This verse occurs in the Book of Exodus following the story of the Israelites who were freed from their life in Egypt after enduring years of suffering as slaves, who then found themselves lost in a barren desert. Moses questions God and in his despair unburdens himself the yoke of leading the Israelites without himself knowing the way, emotionally tired and physically weak from the journey, and in turn the Lord offers Moses friendship and a promise. At long last the Israelites would soon be delivered to the Promised Land of Milk and Honey and they would build a home.
I will give you rest. What a glorious and peaceful promise; your soul which aches with worry or loss or despair will soon know rest. A promise at face value might not be worth much to the world in such a way it cannot buy a meal or put a roof over your head; but to someone of faith God’s promise is eternal and far more valuable than any material gain. How many of us wander for years, searching for this Promised Land, and yet we already hold what has been promised to us within our hearts? The key to finding the peace God promised to Israelites all those centuries ago and to us now is not outside of ourselves, leaving us scouring an empty desert; peace emanates from within our hearts. We cannot be lost, our soul whispers, for it never left home. We were never and are never lost to God no matter how long or broad our journey. Each and every one of us are intricately woven into God’s plan and held in the palm of His hand. Turn to God in times of joy, in times of sorrow. Turn to God and He will give you rest.
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the words of comfort you provided so long ago. They bring me solace now. At times Your will can be difficult to understand when we become weary or do not know what will come next in this rapidly changing and uncertain world. Yet we can turn to you at any moment, whether taking a walk around the block, watching our children play, washing dishes or laying down to sleep. Your presence and friendship are forever ours and the peace You offer timeless and freely given to all. Please help us to find comfort in our journey and to trust that we do not need to know each step ahead for You will go with us. Thank you for giving our weary souls rest.
In Christ’s Name I Pray,
Amen
Thank you, Maxine, for sharing this devotion with us! If you are interested in sharing a devotion, please contact Pastor Arianna Arends.