What can we learn from Moses' reaction to God's presence in this verse? Scripture Focus “ ‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.’ Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look.” (Acts 7:32) Stepping Into the Scene • Stephen recounts Moses’ burning-bush encounter (Exodus 3:6), highlighting two details: – Moses “trembled with fear.” – He “did not dare to look.” • The same God who faithfully led the patriarchs now confronts Moses—holy, personal, and utterly real. What Moses’ Reaction Reveals • Awe before God’s holiness – Exodus 3:5: “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” – Isaiah 6:5; Revelation 1:17—others likewise collapse under the weight of God’s purity. • Healthy fear, not paralyzing terror – Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” – Hebrews 12:28-29 urges “reverence and awe” because “our God is a consuming fire.” • Humble restraint – Moses covers his face (Exodus 3:6) rather than satisfy curiosity. He lets God set the terms. • Readiness to listen – Trembling empties him of self-confidence, making room for God’s commission (Exodus 3:10). Lessons for Us Today • Approach God with reverent confidence—never casual, never shrinking back. • Let His holiness expose self-reliance; surrender becomes the gateway to service. • Fear of the Lord guards against idolatry of self, ministry, or culture. • True calling often begins where our strength ends and His glory overwhelms. Connecting Scriptures • Psalm 33:8—“Let all the earth fear the LORD.” • 1 Peter 1:15-16—“Be holy, for I am holy.” • Philippians 2:12-13—work out salvation “with fear and trembling,” yet God is working in you. • James 4:6—“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Putting It into Practice • Start each day acknowledging God’s holiness before presenting requests. • Cultivate silence; resist the urge to fill every sacred moment with words. • Examine motives—does reverence shape decisions, conversations, worship? • Remember: the God who met Moses now indwells us through Christ (John 14:17). Live accordingly. |
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