¹⁵ Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. ¹⁶ But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.
Luke 5:15-16 (NIV)

You can tell from Luke 5 that Jesus had many demands. Crowds would follow Him, needing something at all times. Even though Jesus was fully God, He understood that the source of His ministry was His relationship with His Father.

If you read Exodus 33, you’d see that Moses was also feeling the pressure of crucial decisions. He was responsible for leading the Israelites through the wilderness to the Promised Land, and this is all after being chosen by God to bring His people out of captivity in Egypt. But throughout his story, you see in these intense moments that as Moses seeks God, he’s met with guidance and direction.

If we were honest, the demands of life have a way of bringing out what’s really inside of us, good or bad. If you don’t know how to access God’s presence daily, you can find yourself in a place of struggle. The good news? You don’t need to be in a church service (although it may feel easier there), feel goosebumps (those are nice, sometimes), or be anyone special to experience this.

¹² Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’ ¹³ If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.” ¹⁴ The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” ¹⁵ Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.”
Exodus 33:12-15 (NIV)

Moses was a reluctant leader dependent on God’s presence. He recognized that talent, ambition, or resources could never replace the presence of God. Ultimately, it was God’s presence that guided Israel and distinguished them as His people.

After Moses, a temple would be built where God’s presence dwelled. There was an arduous process involving priests, rituals, and even a curtain that separated God’s presence from the priests.

When Jesus died on the cross, that veil was torn from top to bottom, symbolizing our new, full access to God’s presence (Hebrews 10:19–22). God is not looking for a special, qualified person. He’s looking for someone with a heart to know Him better.

That same presence that led God’s people through the wilderness wants to meet with you and lead you today. Whatever demands or challenges you’re up against, God’s presence is available to you. He wants to fill you with the faith and strength you need.