Based on God's name, his character as the compassionate and gracious God, Moses was to chisel two new tablets to replace the ones he broke. These inferior tablets would be a constant reminder of the people's mistake and, more importantly, God's grace to give them another chance. Moses and his people now knew firsthand their God is merciful and just. Because of this relationship, God would forgive their sins and the covenant restored.

God called Moses up on the mountain again. For forty days and nights he gave him the words of the covenant. The words were the same. Obedience was still required, but the context is different: They now know God better. God is revealing himself more intimately to his people through Moses. Moses' face shone with God's glory each time they met. This glory is revealed to us in Jesus (2Co 3:16-18). A covenant with God is more than rules to be obeyed. It is a trust relationship with God, who makes and keeps promises, who knows and wants to be known.


Application: Father, thank you for forgiving our sin and making a covenant with us through Jesus. Help me live in this covenant obediently.
One Word: Obedience based on knowing God