Trembling in Intimacy: Embarking on a Journey of Knowing God's Glory

Intimacy with God: A Journey of Trembling

Have you ever wondered why Moses, despite having already experienced numerous divine manifestations, fervently pleaded with God, "Please show me your glory" (Exodus 33:18)? This heartfelt request came after Moses had witnessed the burning bush, witnessed miraculous signs in Egypt, witnessed the exodus and Red Sea deliverance, and encountered God in numerous other extraordinary ways throughout his journey. It is natural to wonder, "What more could Moses possibly desire?"

If we were able to travel back in time and ask Moses that very question, he would likely be perplexed and reply, "More of God's glory, of course! I have only caught a glimpse of 'the outskirts of his ways'" (Job 26:14). And Moses would be absolutely right.

A Thirst for More

Moses' passionate longing for a deeper revelation of God's glory speaks to the innate desire within each of us to know and experience God in a more profound way. It is a thirst that cannot be quenched by mere surface-level encounters or fleeting glimpses of his majesty. Just as a parched traveler in the desert yearns for a refreshing oasis, so too does our soul yearn for the refreshing presence of God.

But why do we long for more? Why is it that, no matter how much we have experienced of God, we still desire greater intimacy with him? The answer lies in the very nature of our relationship with God.

Created for Intimacy

From the very beginning, humanity was created for intimate communion with God. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve walked and talked with God in the cool of the day (Genesis 3:8). They experienced a closeness and intimacy that was unparalleled. However, sin entered the world and shattered this perfect harmony. Yet, even in the midst of brokenness, God's desire for intimacy with his creation remained unchanged.

Throughout the Bible, we find numerous examples of individuals who pursued and experienced deep intimacy with God. David, a man after God's own heart, poured out his soul in raw and vulnerable prayers (Psalm 42:1-2). Elijah experienced the presence of God in a gentle whisper after a tumultuous journey (1 Kings 19:11-13). Mary, the mother of Jesus, treasured the intimate moments she spent at the feet of her Savior (Luke 10:39).

A Call to Trembling

Intimacy with God is not a casual pursuit; it requires a posture of trembling and awe. The psalmist declares, "Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him" (Psalm 33:8). This trembling is not rooted in fear of punishment or judgment, but in reverence for the all-consuming greatness and holiness of God.

When we approach God with trembling hearts, we acknowledge our own limitations and insignificance in the presence of his infinite glory. It is in this posture of humility that we open ourselves to receive more of God's revelation and experience deeper communion with him.

The Journey of Intimacy

Just as Moses journeyed through the wilderness in pursuit of God's glory, so too must we embark on a journey of intimacy. It is a journey that requires commitment, perseverance, and a willingness to let go of the distractions and idols that hinder our pursuit of God.

Along this journey, we will encounter mountaintop experiences where the glory of God shines brightly and fills us with awe. We will also face valleys of darkness and uncertainty, where our faith is tested and refined. But in every season, God invites us to draw near to him and experience the depths of his love and faithfulness.

Embracing the trembling in our hearts, we press on, knowing that the reward of intimacy with God far surpasses any temporary discomfort or sacrifice we may encounter along the way.

Abiding in His Presence

As we continue in our journey, we must recognize that intimacy with God is not a destination but a lifelong pursuit. It is a daily choice to abide in his presence, to seek him in his Word, to engage in heartfelt prayer, and to cultivate a lifestyle of worship.

Jesus himself invites us into this deep and intimate relationship with him: "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me" (John 15:4). Just as a branch draws its sustenance and life from the vine, so too do we draw our spiritual nourishment and vitality from our union with Christ.

When we abide in his presence, we experience the fullness of joy and peace that can only be found in intimate communion with our Creator. Our hearts are transformed, our perspectives are aligned with his, and we are empowered to live lives that bring glory to his name.

Conclusion

As we journey through this year 2023 and beyond, let us not settle for shallow encounters or remain content with glimpses of God's glory. Instead, let us follow in the footsteps of Moses, David, Elijah, and countless others who sought and experienced deep intimacy with God.

May we approach God with trembling hearts, recognizing the magnitude of his greatness and the depths of his love. May we embark on a lifelong journey of pursuing his glory, knowing that the reward of intimacy far outweighs any temporary discomfort or sacrifice we may encounter along the way.

And as we abide in his presence, may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of knowing and experiencing the fullness of God's glory.

Are you ready to embark on this journey of trembling and intimacy with God? The choice is yours.