Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel went up and saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was something like a pavement made of sapphire, clear as the sky itself. But God did not raise His hand against these leaders of the Israelites; they saw God, and they ate and drank. — Exodus 24:9-11
I’m struck with how casual God can be at times. This is the same God who said, "… you cannot see My face, for no one may see Me and live." Yet He invites Moses who will later disobey and strike the rock instead of speaking to it, Aaron who will turn around and make a golden calf idol, Nadab and Abihu who will
dishonor Him by burning unauthorized fire, and the seventy elders who will fail to take a stand with Joshua and Caleb after the exploration of the land.
All of us have lies that we believe, deep down. Vulnerable moment: Here’s one of mine. Sometimes, deep down, I have thought of God as aloof, as not really
caring, as not being concerned or connected. But here He is, reaching out to the very people who will rebel against Him, inviting them up for a picnic lunch.
Years ago I came upon the discovery that God likes me. That may seem unimportant to you, but to me it was absolutely life changing. I knew that God loved
me, I mean, hey, that’s His job. But I never knew that He liked me. That He liked hanging out with me. That He liked quirky, eccentric, sometimes bold but often hesitant me.
God likes me. I’m still finding the edges of that discovery, if there are any. And, do you know something? I think He likes you too.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
To find out more about Dwight Clough, his books, his ministry, or to receive this devotional via email visit DwightClough.com. Dwight and his wife Kim are active members of Lake City Church in Madison.