After Moses’ earnest prayer, the LORD gave instructions for restoring Israel following their sin of worshiping the golden calf. The most important part of this was for Moses himself to meet God personally by coming into God’s presence (2). It was time for Moses to learn about the God who restores sinners’ relationship with himself. God revealed his own nature to Moses—how he is merciful, loving, and forgiving, yet also just (6-7).

Moses prayed earnestly for God to go with his people and make them his inheritance (8-9). In response, God reiterated the requirements of the covenant for Israel, and Moses wrote them down during the forty days he spent in God’s presence.

When Moses came down from the mountain, his face was radiant—a sign of how he had been personally transformed. He had met the God of redemption, who is revealed fully to us in Christ. Spending time with Christ will change us also, giving our lives a radiance that does not fade away (2 Co 3:7-11). The blank tablets God told Moses to prepare can represent our hearts—and maybe even a blank notebook as well! When we come to God, we should empty our hearts of fixed ideas so that God can teach us about who he is.
Application: Father, thank you for revealing yourself to us in Christ to change us gloriously. Help me to empty myself and spend time in your presence.
One Word: Transformed by being with God