Sometimes we have to face the problems, ask God if He is trying to teach us something. And then as we learn the hard lessons we increase in authority and faith to address the mountains verbally. Sometimes we are surprised when God moves very quickly. Life is a learning process.
All of life is a test of our faith, whether we realise it or not. The choice to be scrupulously honest is always before us, and there are many moments when we must remember that the eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.
This must have been an incredible sight, worthy of an epic film. The Israelites had been wandering for 40 years in the desert, and had finally crossed the Jordan, into their land of promise. But they were not welcomed, and had difficult battles until they could really possess their promises.
God was so very specific in his orders to Moses and Moses was very specific in his obedience, right up to his death. He knew as he made this farewell speech that he would not be the one to climb those mountains and proclaim those blessings and curses.
In the gospel of John we can read details of a discussion between Jesus and the Pharisees concerning the identity of Jesus. And at one point the Pharisees accuse Jesus of being a Samaritan, rudely suggesting that He was not totally Jewish, but of mixed race (John 8:48).
Aaron met Moses on the same mountain. But before Aaron arrived, we have the almost unbelievable account of Moses arguing with God and The Lord showing him in advance two signs he was to perform when he met the resistance of Pharaoh. This was a real dress rehearsal for Moses.
It is worth noting that Moses was not afraid of God, but just afraid to look at Him! That is a sign of somebody who does not feel guilt. We have the story in the New Testament of Saul who was blinded when he came face to face with God.
In 1 Kings 19:8 we discover the name of this mountain:- Mount Sinai in Horeb. It was where Elijah ran to, after his victory over the prophets of Baal. He was scared, and I guess the mountain of God is a good place to run to when you are scared!
A study of the character of Peter would be a good idea. He was such an impetuous person. Always the one to speak first, jump in with the good suggestion, get out of the boat…! The story today is no different. His fear made him say something without thinking.
The account of the transfiguration on this high mountain is only reported in Matthew and Mark, which I find surprising. Surely such a major event which had such powerful effect on the three privileged disciples who were witnesses, merited being reported in the other two gospels, especially that of John.
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