May 10: Never Without Him

“If Your presence does not go, Moses responded to Him, don’t make us go up from here.”

— Exodus 33:15

It’s possible to have all the right plans, the right resources, and even a vision of success—but still miss the most essential ingredient: the presence of God.

Moses understood this. As Israel prepared to enter the Promised Land, God offered to send an angel ahead of them to drive out their enemies (Exodus 33:2). They could still have the land, still achieve the goal. But without God Himself going with them, Moses boldly refused the offer. To Moses, success without God was not success at all.

This heart posture echoes throughout Scripture. In Psalm 127:1, we are reminded, “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it.” Likewise, Jesus tells His disciples in John 15:5, “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” The presence of God is not an accessory to success—it is the very foundation.

King Saul serves as a sobering contrast. Though he began with God’s favor, he later chose ambition over obedience (1 Samuel 15). He retained the throne for a time, but without God’s presence, his reign was marked by fear, jealousy, and eventual ruin.

Moses teaches us that it is better to remain in the wilderness with God than to enter the land of promise without Him. True success is not measured by progress or prosperity, but by proximity to the Lord.

Ask yourself today: Am I pursuing God’s presence, or only His promises? Would I be content with reaching my goals if it meant walking without Him? Like Moses, may we be a people who refuse to move unless God moves with us.

Prayer:

Lord, I don’t want to take one step without You. Let Your presence be more important to me than any earthly reward or personal ambition. Keep me close to You, even if the path forward is unclear. Lead me by Your Spirit, and let my success be found in walking with You. Amen.