The Presence of God and the Greatest Commandment
Morning: Exodus 31-33
Evening: Matthew 22:23-46
God’s presence is the most valuable treasure we can seek. In Exodus 31-33, we see the Israelites’ struggle with faithfulness, their rebellion with the golden calf, and Moses’ desperate plea for God’s presence to remain with them. Moses understood that without God, they had nothing. In Matthew 22:23-46, Jesus reveals the greatest commandment: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. These passages remind us that true worship is not about rituals or religious knowledge—it is about being near to God and loving Him above all else.
When we make God’s presence our priority, we find peace, guidance, and purpose. Just as Moses pleaded, “If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence” (Exodus 33:15), we must seek God in every aspect of our lives. The greatest commandment calls us to align our hearts with His, loving Him fully and extending His love to others.
Key Insights:
- God’s presence is essential – Moses refused to move forward without God’s presence. Likewise, we must seek His presence daily (Exodus 33:15).
- True worship is about relationship, not just rituals – The Israelites turned to idols, but Moses pursued communion with God. Worship is about intimacy, not empty traditions (Exodus 32:1-8).
- Loving God fully leads to obedience – Jesus emphasized that the greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. When we love Him, obedience follows naturally (Matthew 22:37).
- Loving others is a reflection of loving God – The second greatest commandment is to love our neighbor as ourselves. Our love for God must translate into love for people (Matthew 22:39).
- God’s mercy and faithfulness remain despite our failures – Even when Israel sinned, God was merciful. His grace covers our shortcomings and calls us back into His presence (Exodus 34:6-7).
Connection to Other Scripture:
- Psalm 16:11 – “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” God’s presence brings joy and direction.
- John 14:21 – “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me.” Love for God is demonstrated through obedience.
- 1 John 4:20 – “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar.” Loving others is inseparable from loving God.
Questions to Reflect On:
- Am I seeking God’s presence daily, or am I moving forward without Him?
- Are there any idols (priorities, distractions) in my life that pull me away from God?
- How does my love for God shape my obedience to Him?
- Do I love others the way Jesus commanded? How can I reflect His love more?
- What steps can I take to grow deeper in my relationship with God today?
A Prayer for Today:
Heavenly Father, I long for Your presence in my life. Just as Moses refused to move without You, I ask that You lead me in every step I take. Help me to love You with all my heart, soul, and mind, and to love those around me as You have loved me. Forgive me for the times I have sought other things before You. Draw me closer to You, and let my life be a reflection of Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.