Foundations Week 9, Day 2

Scripture Read:  Exodus 34 - 36:1
Title: Moses' face shines after being in the presence of the LORD

H.E.A.R. Entry
(H) Highlight verse:  "When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with two tablets of the testimony in his hand as he came down the mountain, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God."  Ex. 34:29

(E) Explain:   Earlier when Moses came upon the Israelites worshiping the golden calf he destroyed the stone tablets containing the law on them that God wrote for them.  Because of God's enduring love, grace and mercy he calls Moses back up to the mountain to give to him the law once again.  When Moses meets with God, He makes a covenant with Moses and this covenant speaks of the mighty works He will do for the people of Israel.  
When God finished giving Moses instructions, he went down the mountain and he was unaware that his face was shining brightly.  He face shone because he was in the presence of God.  Apparently is was so bright, Moses had to put a veil over his face.  
Once he came to the people Moses re-iterated the Sabbath instructions and made a call to the people to make donations of gold, silver, fabrics, etc. for the tabernacle.  He also called for skilled craftsmen to make all the items God told Moses to have made for the tabernacle.  God commissions Bezalel and Oholiab to oversee the craftsmen.

(A) Application: The bright shining face of Moses was evidence that he was in the presence of God.  Moses could not hide the fact that he was with God.  This truth really resonates with me and I think teaches us a truth about God.  This truth is, when you are walking and talking with God, the evidence will be crystal clear.  I have often said and I firmly believe that whenever someone encounters God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit he will never be the same.  When you meet with God your life is changed forever.  When  you encounter God you will treat people differently, you will speak differently, you will live your life differently than the rest of the world.  Your actions and deeds will be evidence of your encounter with God.  Now, I can't guarantee that your face will shine so bright you will need to wear a veil over your face, but I think ultimately your face will be a reflection of an encounter with God.  You will have a look of joy, peace, happiness, contentment and love that will be evident to those around you.

(R) Respond:  LORD, may my actions, words and deeds reflect your presence in my life  May people see the joy of the LORD in me and may my face shine brightly your peace, joy, love, happiness and contentment and may it be contagious.