How can we seek God's presence despite our "stiff-necked" nature, as in Exodus 34:9? Exodus 34:9 in Context “Moses said, ‘O Lord, if I have indeed found favor in Your sight, my Lord, please go with us—even though this is a stiff-necked people. Forgive our iniquity and our sin, and take us as Your inheritance.’” Israel had just fallen into idolatry with the golden calf, yet Moses pleads for God’s continued presence. His words model how stubborn people can still draw near to a holy God. Recognizing the Stiff-Necked Heart • Stiff-necked means resistant, unbending, slow to yield (Acts 7:51). • Scripture insists we face this condition honestly (Jeremiah 17:9). • God’s presence is for the humble, not the self-reliant (Isaiah 57:15). Keys to Seeking His Presence 1. Humble Confession • “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” Psalm 51:17 • Regularly name sin as God names it; refuse excuses or blame-shifting. 2. Bold Pleading on Covenant Mercy • Moses appeals to God’s character just revealed: “The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious…” (Exodus 34:6-7). • We appeal to the finished work of Christ, the Mediator of the new covenant (Hebrews 9:15). 3. Repentant Obedience • “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” John 14:15 • Turning from sin is not earning favor but clearing the way for unhindered fellowship. 4. Persistent Seeking • “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4:8 • Schedule unhurried time in Word and worship; cultivate expectancy. 5. Dependent Prayer • Moses spoke “face to face” (Exodus 33:11). We enter through Christ: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” Hebrews 4:16 • Pray Scripture back to God; let His promises shape requests. 6. Community Commitment • Moses prays “go with us,” not merely “with me.” • Fellowship stirs one another to seek the Lord (Hebrews 10:24-25). 7. Gratitude and Worship • After God renews the covenant, Moses bows in worship (Exodus 34:8). • Thanksgiving softens hearts and keeps them pliable (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Living Out the Invitation • Daily humble yourself, confessing any fresh stiffness. • Anchor hope in God’s unfailing covenant love, secured in Christ. • Replace resistance with quick obedience, trusting His commands are good. • Keep seeking—God delights to dwell with redeemed yet once-stiff-necked people. |
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