How does Joshua's presence in Exodus 33:11 inspire us to seek God's presence? The Scene in the Tent of Meeting Exodus 33:11 sets the stage: “Thus the LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun would not leave the tent.” Joshua, though still an assistant, chooses to remain where God’s glory had just manifested. That single sentence quietly shouts volumes about hunger for the Presence. Joshua’s Example of Lingering • He stayed when others went back to routine • He valued proximity to God over position, activity, or comfort • He absorbed an atmosphere of divine friendship that would shape his future leadership (cf. Numbers 27:18) • He demonstrated that intimacy precedes responsibility—he would one day lead Israel because he first learned to sit with God Reasons to Linger in God’s Presence • Intimacy: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) • Insight: “The secret counsel of the LORD is for those who fear Him.” (Psalm 25:14) • Identity: Joshua’s calling crystallized in the tent; our own sense of purpose clarifies when we dwell with Him (Psalm 139:23-24) • Influence: Acts 4:13 shows that time with Jesus marks believers in ways the world can’t ignore Scriptural Echoes of Joshua’s Heart • Psalm 27:4—David’s single desire mirrors Joshua’s lingering spirit • 1 Samuel 3:3—Young Samuel stayed near the ark and heard God’s voice • Luke 10:39—Mary of Bethany “sat at the Lord’s feet listening” while others busied themselves • Hebrews 11:6—God “rewards those who earnestly seek Him” Practical Steps to Pursue God’s Presence Today • Carve out unhurried, undistracted time each day—quality matters more than quantity • Meditate on passages depicting God’s nearness (John 15; Psalm 91) • Practice worship without an agenda—linger after the last song or word • Keep a journal of insights and nudges sensed during these moments • Guard an attitude of expectancy: He still speaks “face to face” through His Word and Spirit Living the Joshua Lifestyle Joshua’s silent decision in Exodus 33:11 calls every believer to choose the tent over the camp—communion over commotion. Staying close to God’s Presence transforms spectators into participants, servants into leaders, and ordinary days into holy ground. |
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