How should we respond when God seems distant, as in Exodus 20:21? Setting the Scene “ ‘And the people stood at a distance as Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.’ ” (Exodus 20:21) The living, holy God had truly descended on Sinai. Lightning, thunder, trumpet blasts, and smoke testified that this was no mere symbol. Yet the people pulled back while Moses pressed in. When God feels veiled in “thick darkness,” His nearness is still literal and undiminished; the issue is our response. Recognize the Purpose of the Distance • It guards His holiness and our good (Exodus 19:12–13). • It produces reverent fear, not terror (Exodus 20:20). • It invites a mediator—foreshadowing Christ (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 8:6). Respond with Faith, Not Flight • Remember His unchanging promise: “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). • Anchor your heart in His character: “Darkness and thick clouds are all around Him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne” (Psalm 97:2). • Choose obedience when feelings lag (John 14:15). Move Toward Him as Moses Did 1. Draw near through the blood of Jesus—our better access (Hebrews 10:19–22). 2. Speak honestly like David, yet refuse despair (Psalm 13; Psalm 42:5). 3. Fix your eyes on what is written, not on what is felt (Romans 10:17). Practical Steps for Today • Open the Word daily; light shines in darkness (Psalm 119:105). • Sing truth aloud; praise enthrones God in perceived silence (Psalm 22:3). • Gather with faithful believers; corporate worship echoes Sinai’s assembly (Hebrews 12:22–24). • Serve someone in Jesus’ name; obedience often rekindles assurance (John 13:17). • Keep short accounts with God; confessed sin restores fellowship (1 John 1:9). Scriptural Reinforcements When He Seems Hidden • Isaiah 45:15 – He sometimes “hides Himself,” yet remains Savior. • Psalm 139:7–12 – No distance can truly separate us. • James 4:8 – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” • John 14:18 – “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” • Psalm 73:28 – “But as for me, it is good to draw near to God.” Encouragement for the Journey The same God who thundered on Sinai now dwells within every believer (1 Corinthians 6:19). When His presence feels hidden, take Moses’ path—step toward the cloud, trusting the covenant. The darkness only conceals; it cannot exclude. |
    |