Topical Encyclopedia Moses, a central figure in the Old Testament, exemplifies boldness in prayer through his direct and fervent intercessions with God. His relationship with the Lord is marked by a unique intimacy and courage, allowing him to approach God with confidence and plead on behalf of the Israelites.Intercession on Mount Sinai (Exodus 32:11-14): One of the most striking instances of Moses' boldness in prayer occurs after the Israelites commit idolatry by worshiping the golden calf. God's anger is kindled against the people, and He declares His intention to destroy them and make a great nation out of Moses. In response, Moses intercedes with remarkable boldness, appealing to God's promises and reputation. He says, "But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God, saying, 'O LORD, why does Your anger burn against Your people, whom You brought out of the land of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand?'" (Exodus 32:11). Moses reminds God of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, urging Him to relent. The passage concludes with, "So the LORD relented from the calamity He had threatened to bring on His people" (Exodus 32:14). Pleading for God's Presence (Exodus 33:12-17): Following the incident of the golden calf, Moses again demonstrates boldness in prayer by seeking assurance of God's presence with the Israelites. Aware of the gravity of leading the people without divine guidance, Moses implores God, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here" (Exodus 33:15). His boldness is rooted in his understanding of the necessity of God's presence for the success and identity of the nation. God responds favorably to Moses' plea, affirming, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest" (Exodus 33:14). Request to See God's Glory (Exodus 33:18-23): In a profound act of boldness, Moses requests to see God's glory. He petitions, "Please show me Your glory" (Exodus 33:18). This request signifies Moses' deep desire for a more intimate knowledge of God. The Lord graciously agrees to reveal His goodness and proclaim His name before Moses, while also protecting him from the full force of His glory, saying, "You cannot see My face, for no one can see Me and live" (Exodus 33:20). Intercession for the People (Numbers 14:13-19): When the Israelites rebel at the report of the spies and face the threat of divine destruction, Moses once again intercedes with boldness. He appeals to God's character, saying, "The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion, forgiving iniquity and transgression" (Numbers 14:18). Moses' prayer reflects his deep understanding of God's nature and his confidence in God's mercy. The Lord responds by pardoning the people, demonstrating the power of Moses' bold intercession. Moses' boldness in prayer is characterized by his unwavering faith in God's promises, his deep understanding of God's character, and his willingness to stand in the gap for the people he leads. His example serves as a powerful testament to the efficacy of bold, faith-filled prayer. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 33:12-18And Moses said to the LORD, See, you say to me, Bring up this people: and you have not let me know whom you will send with me. Yet you have said, I know you by name, and you have also found grace in my sight. Nave's Topical Index Library Prevailing Prayer. Imagination in Prayer Because of his Importunity Intercessory Prayer Answer to the Jewish Rabby's Letter. The Throne of Grace The Works of John Cassian. On the Baptism of Christ. Acts vi. 8 Chapter v Resources What does the Bible say about boldness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Friend in Need (Persistent Neighbor)? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about passivity / being passive? | GotQuestions.org Boldness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Boldness: Instances of, in Prayer: Abraham Boldness: Instances of, in Prayer: Moses Holy Boldness is Through Faith in Christ Holy Boldness: A Characteristic of Saints Holy Boldness: Christ Set an Example of Holy Boldness: Exhortations To Holy Boldness: Express Your Trust in God With Holy Boldness: Have, in Prayer Holy Boldness: Joseph of Arimathaea Holy Boldness: Ministers should Exhibit, in Faithfulness to Their People Holy Boldness: Ministers should Exhibit, in Preaching Holy Boldness: Ministers should Exhibit, in Reproving Sin Holy Boldness: Ministers should Exhibit, in The Face of Opposition Holy Boldness: Produced by Faithfulness to God Holy Boldness: Produced by The Fear of God Holy Boldness: Produced by Trust in God Holy Boldness: Saints Shall Have, in Judgment Related Terms |