1. Not because of your righteousness (1-6)

The people of Israel were about to go into battle against strong nations. God gave them his assurance that he would go ahead of them. No nation is stronger than the Lord. When he is our guide, and when we follow him, we are assured of victory over the strongest foe. But the Lord knows men's hearts tend toward pride. He warned the people that when they had success, they would be tempted to think it was because of their righteousness, not God's faithfulness to them.

2. Moses' prayers of intercession (7-29)

Moses reminded them that they had failed and angered God because of their unbelief and disobedience. Moses prayed based on God's faithfulness--and God listened and did not destroy or abandon them. He heard Moses and his intercessory prayer. That is why the Lord's Presence was with them. (Ex 33). That is why he was going ahead of them now.