Exodus 33:17

The Lord said unto Moses, I will do this thing also— Though we cannot suppose that prayer can make the Deity more compassionate, or produce a change in his sentiments; yet, as he has been pleased to suspend the grant of his favours on the condition of prayer; we have the strongest reason and the best encouragement, to continue unwearied in the use of it; and to intercede earnestly for those blessings for ourselves and others, which the unbounded goodness of God is always ready to bestow upon such as are fit to receive them.

REFLECTIONS.—Moses now appears before God, pleading for the people, and prevails. He had gained for them already a respite from wrath, but he seeks the manifestation of the presence and favour of Jehovah.

1. We have his prayer. Since it pleased God to employ him, he begs his Presence with him: though Israel had forfeited all favour, he pleads God's gracious expressions to himself, and that they may appear in the grant of mercy to the people at his intercession. He desires the Divine guidance, as sensible that he else could never lead them aright; and introduces at last their covenant-relation to God. Though they were rebellious children, he insinuates, God was a Father to them still: nay, he insists upon the impossibility of advancing, unless God go with them; and rather chooses to die there, than move without him. He then closes with an argument drawn from God's glory for the success of his petition; and if the people were unworthy, or himself undeserving, yet for his own great Name's sake, he pleads for his Presence among them, Learn, (1.) Without Divine guidance we never could find the way to heaven. (2.) If ever we are led thither, we must be indebted to the intercession of our dear Redeemer, for whose sake alone God can have any respect to us.

2. God's answer. He grants his request, promises his Presence, and acknowledges the efficacy of his pleadings. Note; (1.) When Jesus is our Advocate, we are sure of prevailing: not only guilt will be pardoned, but grace conferred, and glory secured to us. (2.) They will never fail of an answer of peace, who thus, with Moses, in humble faith and importunity, make their requests known unto God.