DISTINGUISHED

“’For how else is it to be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people, other than by your going with us? That is what distinguishes us, me and your people, from all the other peoples on earth.’”
Exodus 33:16

What makes me different from everyone else in the world? Well for starters, I am a male. Alright, that will distinguish me from the females, but what more? I am American. So then I decrease myself a fraction more. I live in Tennessee. I am 37 years old. My name is Daniel. I live in an apartment. All these things narrow the chances of a duplicate me down, but they do not single me out. I am sure that living somewhere within Tennessee is another 37 year old male renting an apartment whose name is Daniel. I fear just being another guy; I want to be distinguished from the masses.
In reading Exodus 3:12-16, Moshe shares this same thought. In fact, I think he even takes it a step farther in saying not only does he want to follow Adonai, but that he will not even move unless Adonai leads. It is Adonai who distinguishes Isra’el from all others. Look at this entire portion with me.

“Moshe said to ADONAI, "Look, you say to me, 'Make these people move on!' But you haven't let me know whom you will be sending with me. Nevertheless you have said, 'I know you by name,' and also, 'You have found favor in my sight.' Now, please, if it is really the case that I have found favor in your sight, show me your ways; so that I will understand you and continue finding favor in your sight. Moreover, keep on seeing this nation as your people."
He answered, "Set your mind at rest - my presence will go with you, after all."
Moshe replied, "If your presence doesn't go with us, don't make us go on from here. For how else is it to be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people, other than by your going with us? That is what distinguishes us, me and your people, from all the other peoples on earth."

I think too many times I am quick to make a move and hope that Adonai blesses it. I know I do this. Right away I think to my marriage in 1998 where even though I felt in my spirit that the timing was off, I did it anyway. My thought was that because divorce is hated, Adonai will have no choice but to bless the marriage. Nine years later, while signing the divorce papers, I realized how wrong my thinking was.
I do not want to continue going into situations of life with my ideas not matching His. I do not want to go another step without knowing that He is guiding me in His steps. I want Moshe’s words and actions to be mine. I want to only move where His presence leads. This mindset and follow through is the single action that distinguishes me from all others.

Exodus 33:12-16