BFB-The Stretch Devotional & Guide 2026 - Flipbook - Page 15
REACH UP | STRETCHING TOWARD GOD
DAY 7: THE PRESENCE THAT
TRANSFORMS
SIS. SHIRLEY S. HAMMONDS
EXODUS 33:12-23; JOHN 20:24-27
Reflection:
God’s willingness to be in the presence of His people highlights His grace and commitment to
guidance and rest for those who have a desperate desire for divine companionship.
Expanded Focus:
Oftentimes, when we really want to know the truth about someone or something, we allow them
into our space. We seek ways to be in their presence to verify or prove that they are who they say
they are. I think that can be defined as doubt. Remember the person they call doubting Thomas,
who needed proof that the disciples had seen the Lord (John 20:25-27)? Thomas’ transformation
occurred when he was in the presence of the Lord, who directly addressed him and allowed him to
examine Jesus’ body.
Let’s not forget Moses (Exodus 33:12-22), who was the opposite of Thomas. He was tasked by God
to take the people to the Promised Land. Moses knew that God's presence would set them apart
from others. Therefore, Moses asked God to show him His glorious presence (v18). When you
honestly and wholeheartedly seek to be in the presence of God, He will show up, as He did with
Moses (v18-23).
I was doubting Thomas and Moses. As a
