Online Reporter
GREETINGS, beloved, in the precious name of Jesus Christ. Exodus 33:14 declares, “And He said, My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Starting from Exodus 33:1, we learn that God promised the children of Israel they would inherit the land
He had sworn to their ancestors — Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. However, there was a condition: God initially stated He would not go with them, only sending His angel to lead the way.
This indicates that while God was faithful to His covenant, His presence would not accompany them due to their stubbornness and disobedience. In verses 12-16, Moses intercedes, pleading with God to go with them personally.
Moses understood that God’s presence was more valuable than simply reaching the Promised Land. He recognised that arriving with God’s presence would bring true rest —beyond mere physical safety.
Today, I want to focus on the second part of that promise: “and I will give you rest.”
What is rest? While the word has various meanings, in the Biblical context, it encompasses several dimensions: 1. Physical Rest: Ceasing from labour, relaxation and rejuvenation (Genesis 2:2-3; Exodus 20:8-11).
2. Spiritual Rest: Trusting in God’s provision, surrendering worries and finding peace in Him (Matthew 11:28-30; Psalm 23:4).
3. Sabbath rest: A dedicated day of worship and renewal set aside to honour God (Exodus 20:8-11; Deuteronomy 5:12-15).
4. Eternal rest: The everlasting peace and presence of God believers will experience in Heaven (Revelation 14:13; Hebrews 4:9-11).
God grants us rest in various forms — both eternal and temporary, physical and spiritual.
A key dimension: Rest through declaration
Let’s examine the life of Solomon, the wise king and son of David. In 1 Kings 5:2-4, Solomon states, “The Lord my
God has given me rest on every side; there is neither adversary nor evil occurrence.”
This rest was not just a physical state but a divine declaration. It was granted as a result of God’s promise — a proclamation that created a spiritual environment of peace and stability.
Furthermore, in 1 Kings 8:56, Solomon affirms, “Blessed be the Lord, who has given rest to His people Israel, according to all that He promised. There has not failed one word of all His good promise, which He promised through His servant Moses.”
Notice the emphasis on “all” — God’s promises are comprehensive and complete. Despite their hardships, the Israelites experienced divine rest because God remained faithful to His word.
Interestingly, Solomon’s rest was associated with a period of peace that enabled him to focus on building the temple — a task that David, his father, was prevented from completing due to warfare and bloodshed. God’s rest on Solomon was a gift that facilitated this divine project.
This underscores a vital truth: rest is a gift from God. You do not earn it through effort or struggle, it is bestowed by His grace. Rest is peace — sometimes its present even amid battles, when adversaries are physically present but spiritually powerless to disturb your peace.
Rest is not merely material wealth, houses or possessions. Many wealthy individuals lack true rest, often unable to sleep in their own homes or find peace amid their riches.
What then is the value of money, houses or degrees if rest is absent?
The Biblical promise of rest extends beyond material comfort — it involves inner peace, spiritual tranquillity and being in God’s presence. It encompasses a state of harmony with God, irrespective of external circumstances.
In 1 Kings 5:4-5, Solomon speaks of the rest God granted him — free from enemies and distractions — so he could focus on building the temple. Rest, therefore, is also linked with purpose and divine assignment. When God grants rest, it empowers us to fulfil His plans without hindrance.
Remember, rest is given by God — it’s not something you fight for or buy. Exodus 33:14 clearly states, “I will give you rest.”
Rest signifies peace — sometimes, it’s the absence of conflict even when enemies are present. This divine peace comes through the presence of God.
Exodus 33:14 highlights two essential truths:
1. My Presence will go with you
2. I will give you rest
Both are intertwined. Without God’s presence, true rest cannot be sustained. To experience divine rest, we must first seek His presence. Only then can the peace that surpasses all understanding become our reality.
Despite the challenges we face — be it health issues, financial struggles, family conflicts, or ministry battles — God remains faithful to His promise of rest. His word will not return void, He watches over His promises to bring them to pass. If you haven’t yet received Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, I invite you now, believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and you shall be saved.
May God bless you abundantly!
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