A Prayer for the Presence of God: Lessons from Exodus 33 on the Eve of a New Year

As the clock ticks down on December 31, 2025, and the world prepares to usher in 2026, many of us find ourselves in moments of quiet reflection. The past year has been a tapestry of triumphs and trials—days filled with joy and gratitude, interspersed with seasons of sorrow, struggle, and unanswered questions. In churches around the globe, congregations gather not just to celebrate the turning of the calendar but to seek divine guidance for the road ahead. It is in this spirit that we turn to a timeless sermon delivered on this very evening, drawing from the book of Exodus chapter 33. The message, centered on Moses' fervent plea in verse 15—"If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence"—serves as a profound call to prioritize God's presence above all else as we step into the unknown.This article expands upon the sermon's transcript, weaving its biblical insights, historical context, and practical applications into a comprehensive exploration. It invites readers to pause amid the festivities and consider not merely what we plan to achieve in the coming year, but with whom we will journey. In an era of rapid change, where success is often measured by metrics and milestones, this prayer reminds us that true progress is impossible without the divine companionship of the Almighty.