The Israelites were (are) God’s chosen people, set apart from any other nation. For example, no other nation had a leader who met with God in such an intimate way. The Lord dictated to Moses the Ten Commandments, and other regulations by which the Jews were to live. Also, the Lord wanted them to be one nation that did not have an earthly king, but He Himself would be their King (see 1 Samuel 8:7).
During one meeting between Moses and God, Moses asked,
What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth? Exodus 33:16
The Lord responded with assurance that His Presence would go with the Israelites, and they would experience rest (see Exod. 33:14-23). Then God took Moses aside and revealed His glory.
Questions to ponder:
- What distinguishes YOU from other people in the world?
- Can other people see the difference?
- How intimate is your relationship with the Lord?