Hope in UncertaintyExemplo

A LOOK IN THE MIRROR

Read

When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, with the two tablets of the testimony in his hand as he came down from the mountain, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God.

-Exodus 34:29

Reflect

You know that awkward moment when you spot someone who used too much self-tanner. Their skin is an interesting orange hue that defies natural color. You do not want to stare, but cannot deny the shock of their abnormal appearance. I always wonder what such a person thinks when looking in a mirror.

On Mount Sinai, Moses had been with the Lord. Scripture says he did not know that the skin of his face shone. He could not see the change. He did not have a mirror. Moses only saw the shocked response of his audience to his bright and shining appearance.

This change of appearance occurred while, for the second time, Moses met with God and received the Ten Commandments. When he came back into public view, the people noticed a change.

The physical change in Moses’ appearance from being in the presence of God is an illustration of how our spiritual countenance can appear different to others from our time spent communing with God. Moses did not try to fake the glow on his face. In fact, he did not know his face was shining. Unfortunately, there are people who act religious and righteous without the warmth of the glory of God glowing in their hearts. Sister, time in the presence of the Lord will make a difference in your life and your countenance.

You say, “But, I don’t have that kind of time!” You may feel like you don’t have hours to spend in prayer, but on the other hand how long does it take in the presence of Almighty God to make some change in your life? I believe that sometimes it only takes a moment. How long did it take the woman who touched the robe of Christ in the Gospel according to Mark (5:25–34)? In just a moment, she experienced a miraculous healing and transformation. A moment!

Am I suggesting that extended periods in Bible study and prayer is not necessary? No, that is not what I suggest. But, we cannot discount the impact of moments throughout the day when you hear a song that leads your heart to worship, or read a devotion or inspirational quote on your cell phone while waiting in line. There is no one formula for spiritual growth.

Respond

Read and meditate on these words from author Misha Boyett:

“Enough time” is not a five-step plan, some secret sauce that nobody else has figured out. It’s a spiritual condition of believing that there is enough time because God is enough, because God is making me enough. It’s leaning into the reality of grace.

How can you lean into the reality of grace today?

Prayer

Father, make me fully present in this day. Help me be fully aware of your presence with me. Give me a countenance that shines with your glory! Amen.