Scripture
They said to Moses, “If you speak to us we will listen, but don't let God speak to us or we will die.”

Observation
God shows Himself as a covenant-making God. He desires relationship with His people and lays down the terms for that relationship.

The Ten Commandments legislate a way of life that responds faithfully to God's act in bringing the people out of slavery.

The commandments are not just about how to worship Yahweh. They also describe a life that is good for us- rest on the Sabbath, honour your parents, do not covet.

The people's response to this is fear. They so not want to draw close to God but want Moses to be an intermediary for them.

Application
Here is a mighty God who has overcome the greatest military power in the world at that time in setting Israel free. He has demonstrated His power over the natural world by parting the Red Sea. Now He shows His people how to draw close to Him.

Their response if to look at the fire and smoke and draw back.

People talk about wanting a deeper relationship with God, but in practice it's not what they want at all. The fact is that God has already done what is necessary but we pull back from giving ourselves entirely to Him.

Why are we afraid?

Many of us want to hold on to our dreams and ambitions and are afraid to surrender these to God.

Others of us want to hold on to our secret sins and fear the life of holiness that God prescribes.

So fear of the manifestations of God's glory hold us back from embracing Him.

Prayer
Lord help me to worship you and live entirely for you. May I overcome my fear of loss so I can die to myself and live for you. Amen.