Take Not Your Presence

Exodus 33:3-4 “Go up to the land flowing with milk and honey. But I will not go with you…When the people heard these distressing words, they began to mourn…” (NIV)*

Let Him discipline

Allow consequences

Prune till it hurts

Even, stay silent.

But don’t let Him take

His Presence away.

Sustenance would end

Strength and hope fade.

His Presence empowers

Lifts above rubble

Breathes fresh beauty

From dirt trodden deep.

Lord, do as you will,

But please, take not

Your Presence away.

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photo and poem by Patty Perkins

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Exodus 33:16 “How will anyone know that you are pleased with me [Moses] and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people…?” (NIV)*

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

The Israelites drank the bitter water of calf idol powder, saw about 3,000 slain, and were stricken with plague. What brought mourning was the thought of the Lord’s Presence being taken away. And wouldn’t that be most hopeless? Thankfully, His Presence remained, and today remains in His children.

*The One Year Bible, New International Version, copyright 1986, Tyndale House Publishers, Wheaton, Illinois.