"God Dwells in the Darkness" ("Transitions" #5) (February 11, 2024)

Dr. Larry Baucom continues our Transitions series with “God Dwells in the Darkness” encouraging us to open our eyes, see where we are concerning God, and approach him more often.

Drawing inspiration from Exodus 20:18-21, Pastor shares three insights to help us see God even when surrounded by darkness.

Point 1: Often we want to keep some distance between God and us.

Like the Israelites, we fear the unknown. The people were told to approach God on the mountain where he would speak to them, but their fear paralyzed them as they beheld the thick darkness shrouding the mountain. We all face darkness at times, but we can take heart in the truth that God is present to walk with us through all of it!

Point 2: We experience more when the distance between God and us is removed.

Terrified, the people told Moses to mediate between them and God. In response, Moses told Israel, “Don't be afraid. God has come to test you so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.” Pastor points out that Moses encourages his people to exchange one fear for another fear, terror for respect. Many fears can tempt us to keep God at arm’s length: fear of change, sacrifice, etc. Summoning the courage to draw near to God is rewarded with possibilities otherwise lost if we stay away.

Point 3: God dwells in the darkness.

Exodus 20:21 presents a paradox when it says, “Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.” Pastor Larry reminds us that while God is light, nevertheless, he dwells in darkness. The verse affirms the psalmist’s words,

Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. (Ps 139:7-8)

There is no hiding from God since he is omnipresent. What is so important to remember is that God’s omnipresence is that of perfect love! As we see in 1 John 4:18, “perfect love drives out fear.” When we approach God, our fears dissipate, and the darkness clears to reveal our loving, ever-present Father.

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