When I Can't Change
Today Mt Sinai rises 2,285 metres above sea-level. 3,500 years ago it was much taller. It is a most rugged and arduous trek up to this day.
1,500 years before Jesus an 80 year-old man routinely climbed this difficult mountainside. This was never too much effort for him to expend, he was approaching God.
Moses would ascend, fast forty days, and then descend not exhausted but energised.
This quaking mountain-top was enveloped in cloud, filled with smoke and struck by lightning bolts. Thunder roared and trumpets blasted. Surely it was a most daunting summit? Yet, it became the home of guidance, change and Divine refreshment.
During each of those forty days and nights Moses literally did nothing for himself. He met with God. He chiselled and listened. Moses was very 'still'. Undistracted, Moses was sustained in a manner impossible when absent from His presence.
When Moses would descend Sinai he was a changed man. Unknowingly this aged man was glowing to all those around. To fast for forty days should bring death (at least a gaunt and pallid appearance), yet to his face it brought life - he now glowed.
When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord. (Exodus 34:39)
The more time I spend with God, the more I become like Him. It should take a minimal effort, only a mere stopping#. He changes me for I can't change myself.
To sit with God is the paradox of change. God does something while I do nothing!
Today's Soul Snippet:
'Satan rocks the cradle when we sleep at our devotions.' ~ Joseph Hall
# P.S. - But at times I do wonder if for many Christians the effort to actually 'stop' maybe a modern climbing of Mt Sinai.
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