Week 9: Day 41 – Exodus 32-33

📖 Scripture Reading: Exodus 32–33

Devotional Focus: Choosing God’s Presence Above All

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Day 41: When You’re Tempted to Settle, Seek God’s Face

In today’s reading, we encounter two contrasting moments: the tragedy of Israel’s idolatry with the golden calf, and the intimacy of Moses’ friendship with God in the tent of meeting.

While Moses was away on the mountain, the people grew impatient and turned to a golden calf—a man-made idol—to lead them. How quickly they forgot God's faithfulness! It’s a powerful reminder of how easy it is to replace God's presence with the "visible" or the convenient when life feels uncertain.

But Moses models something different. In Exodus 33:15, he makes a bold declaration to God:

“If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.”

He understood that God’s presence is the only thing that truly sets us apart, sustains us, and secures our future.

As moms, there are moments when we’re tempted to settle—for quick fixes, for the approval of others, or for just "making it through the day." But Moses challenges us to desire something deeper: God’s presence above all else.

In our homes, our decisions, our parenting, and even our quiet moments—what we need most is to be led by Him.

Reflection Questions:

✨ Are there areas in your life where you've settled for a “golden calf” instead of waiting on God?

✨ What would it look like for you to prioritize God’s presence in your everyday life as a mom?

✨ How can you create space for intimacy with God, even in a busy season?

Prayer:

Lord, I confess that sometimes I chase after what is convenient or visible instead of waiting on You. Help me to desire Your presence above all else. Teach me to lead my home from a place of intimacy with You. Just like Moses, let me never move forward without You. May Your presence guide me daily—in my motherhood, in my work, and in my walk with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

💛 Let this be your prayer today: “Lord, if You’re not in it, I don’t want it.” Choose His presence. It changes everything.