What can we learn about reverence from Moses approaching the "thick darkness"? Setting the Scene Exodus 20:21 says, “So the people stood at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.” Moments earlier, Israel had trembled at thunder, lightning, trumpet blasts, and a smoking mountain (Exodus 20:18-19). God’s voice had just thundered the Ten Commandments. The nation backed away—but Moses stepped forward. The Significance of “Thick Darkness” • In Scripture, dense cloud or darkness often marks God’s immediate presence. • “Clouds and thick darkness surround Him” (Psalm 97:2). • “The LORD has said that He would dwell in the thick cloud” (1 Kings 8:12). • The darkness conceals—yet reveals. It veils God’s blazing holiness so His people are not consumed (cf. Exodus 33:20), while simultaneously signaling that He is truly, tangibly there. • Approaching that darkness therefore required awe-filled confidence in God’s character. Reverence Demonstrated by Moses • He obeyed God’s summons despite sensory terror. Reverence does not flee; it answers (Hebrews 12:18-21 versus 12:22-24). • He valued God’s word above personal safety. Fear of the LORD outweighed fear of nature’s display. • He acted as mediator, drawing near on behalf of those who would not (Deuteronomy 5:22-27). • His posture blended humility and boldness. He knew he was entering holy ground (Exodus 3:5), yet he trusted the LORD who called him. Lessons for Us Today 1. God’s holiness is not diminished by our familiarity with Him. If thick darkness surrounded His presence then, it still testifies that He is utterly other. 2. True reverence involves movement toward God, not retreat. We draw near through Christ (Hebrews 10:19-22), confident yet never casual. 3. Reverence is expressed in obedience. Moses approached because God spoke; we show reverence when Scripture directs our steps (Psalm 119:161). 4. God’s presence may feel uncomfortable. The same Lord who comforts also confronts; reverent hearts accept both. 5. Leadership requires reverent nearness. Like Moses, those who guide others spiritually must first stand in God’s awe-filled presence. Cultivating Godly Reverence • Begin each day by remembering who God is—Creator, Judge, Redeemer. • Read His word aloud; let its authority set the tone (Isaiah 66:2). • Practice silent reflection, acknowledging His unseen but real presence. • Obey promptly. Reverence grows when commands are taken seriously. • Worship corporately with solemn joy, recognizing that “our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29). |
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