How can we approach God with reverence, as seen in Exodus 20:19? Setting the Scene: Israel at Sinai • Exodus 20:19 – “and they said to Moses, ‘Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not let God speak to us, lest we die.’” • Moments before, God’s voice thundered from the mountain, flames and smoke surrounded His presence (Exodus 20:18). • The people’s instinctive reaction—fear and trembling—highlights the holiness of God and the need for a mediator. Why Their Response Matters for Us • God has not changed (Malachi 3:6); His holiness remains absolute. • The Israelites’ dread exposes how human sinfulness recoils before perfect purity (Isaiah 6:5). • Their plea reveals two truths: – We cannot casually stroll into God’s presence. – We need someone to bridge the gap. Steps Toward Reverent Approach Today 1. Recognize God’s Holiness • Psalm 96:9 – “Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth.” • Let awe, not apathy, frame every act of worship. 2. Remember Our Mediator • Hebrews 12:24 – “to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant.” • Moses stood in the gap temporarily; Christ now does so eternally, enabling us to draw near (Hebrews 4:14-16). • Reverence grows when we grasp the cost of that mediation—the cross. 3. Approach with Obedient Hearts • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Israel vowed obedience after hearing God speak (Exodus 24:3). True reverence always produces surrendered living. 4. Cultivate Holy Fear, Not Crippling Terror • Hebrews 12:28-29 – “Let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” • Healthy fear acknowledges His power while trusting His covenant love. 5. Guard Your Words and Steps • Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 – “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God… let your words be few.” • Whether in public worship or private prayer, slow down, ponder who He is, and speak with measured, sincere words. 6. Draw Near through Cleansed Consciences • Hebrews 10:19-22 – “having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience.” • Confession and repentance keep fellowship unclouded (1 John 1:9). Practical Habits that Foster Reverence • Begin each day with Scripture before any screen or schedule. • Incorporate moments of silent awe in corporate worship—no rush to the next song. • Use physical posture (kneeling, bowing) to remind heart and mind of God’s greatness (Psalm 95:6). • Speak His name thoughtfully; avoid flippant or casual references (Exodus 20:7). • Let obedience follow worship—carry Sunday’s awe into Monday’s actions (Romans 12:1). The Promise of Reverent Access • While Israel backed away, believers can “draw near with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16) because Christ has torn the veil (Matthew 27:51). • Reverence does not push us from God; it positions us rightly before Him, allowing deeper intimacy, fuller joy (Psalm 2:11). Summary Exodus 20:19 reminds us that God’s holiness demands awe and that a mediator is essential. In Christ, we have that mediator, enabling us to approach with both trembling respect and assured welcome. By recognizing His holiness, submitting in obedience, and practicing mindful worship, we cultivate the reverence God deserves while enjoying the nearness He provides. |
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