What practices help us approach God with reverence, as Moses did? The Scene in Numbers 7:89 “When Moses entered the Tent of Meeting to speak with the LORD, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim on the atonement cover that was on the ark of the testimony; and the LORD spoke to him.” (BSB) Moses steps into the Tent exactly as God directed, stands before the atonement cover—the “mercy seat”—and listens. Nothing casual or self-styled happens here; every detail reflects obedience, humility, and awe. Practices That Shape a Reverent Approach • Come on God’s Terms – Moses does not invent a method; he follows the divinely prescribed path (Exodus 25:22). – Hebrews 10:19-22 echoes this pattern: we draw near “by the new and living way” opened through Christ’s blood. – Practical takeaway: align our worship, prayer, and ethics with Scripture rather than personal preference. • Cultivate Personal Consecration – Before entering, Moses was washed, robed, and anointed (Exodus 40:12-15). – Psalm 24:3-4 asks, “Who may ascend the mountain of the LORD? … He who has clean hands and a pure heart.” – Daily confession (1 John 1:9) and intentional holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16) keep us fit for close fellowship. • Value the Appointed Meeting Place – The Tent of Meeting was not merely a location; it was where God promised His presence. – Today the gathered church is described as “a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22). – Regular, engaged participation in corporate worship mirrors Moses’ faithful entrance. • Listen Before Speaking – The text highlights hearing: “he heard the voice.” – Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 warns, “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God… let your words be few.” – Build silence and Scripture-listening into devotional rhythms so God’s voice shapes the conversation. • Approach Through the Mercy Seat – The voice comes “from between the two cherubim on the atonement cover.” Mercy covers sin, allowing communion. – Romans 3:25 identifies Jesus as the ultimate “atonement cover” (propitiation). – Every act of reverence begins with gratitude for the cross, not confidence in ourselves. • Expect Personal, Direct Communion – “The LORD spoke to him.” Reverence is not distance but rightly ordered closeness. – John 10:27 promises, “My sheep hear My voice.” – Anticipate specific guidance while maintaining awe; intimate does not mean informal. Living It Out Today 1. Begin each day with Scripture first, words second—read, pause, listen. 2. Examine heart and habits, confessing anything that offends God. 3. Gather with believers weekly, viewing corporate worship as sacred appointment. 4. Let the gospel frame every approach: gratitude for Christ’s blood, confidence in His priesthood. 5. Carry a posture of humility—obey promptly when God’s Word directs. Summing Up Moses’ reverent entry into the Tent showcases obedience, purification, listening, and dependence on atoning mercy. By adopting these same practices—grounded in Christ, guided by Scripture—we too can draw near and hear the living God with holy awe. |
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