Safe in Jesus’ Hands – July 6, 2026
Read: Exodus 33:12-23
And the LORD said, “Behold, there is a place by me where you shall stand on the rock, and while my glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Exodus 33:21-22 (ESV)
Safe in Jesus’ Hands
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Whether it is a scary part in a movie or a loud dog at the park, young children will often reach for their parents’ hand. They want to know if their mom and dad are still there and if they are safe. Their parents’ hand lets them know that wherever they are going they don’t need to be afraid. Someone stronger is there to protect them.
The burden of leadership must have been exhausting for Moses. Every day he helped lead hundreds of thousands of people through the wilderness. The people often complained about food, water, and even about Moses himself. One time, a golden calf seemed more attractive to worship than even God himself! Moses must have been tired, discouraged, and overwhelmed.
God had promised Moses, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14). But Moses wanted even more reassurance. He cried out, “Please, show me your glory” (Exodus 33:18).
God answered Moses’ request, but in a special way. No sinful person can look directly at all of God’s holy glory and live. So, the Lord placed Moses in the cleft of a rock—a safe hiding place—and covered him with his own hand as his glory passed by.
Moses found rest not by escaping his work, but by being safely hidden in the care of God Almighty. Moses learned that God’s glory isn’t just a burning fire of judgment. God’s glory is also his mercy and kindness. He is slow to anger and full of faithful love.
Like Moses, we also pray to a gracious God that the Rock of ages would hide us as well. We don’t need to hide in a rocky outcropping like Moses did, but we do need Jesus. Jesus keeps us safe in his grace and gives us true rest. In Jesus, God’s glory is seen as his saving grace. Jesus stretched out his nailed-scarred hands on the cross. Now those same loving hands watch over you and everywhere you go. Wherever you go, Jesus goes with you.
Hidden in Christ, your sins are forgiven, your burdens are carried, and your soul is granted eternal rest. God’s hand is on you, and you are safe with him!
Prayer:
Lord God, heavenly Father, when we feel worried, scared, or tired, remind us that Jesus is our safe place. Hide us in the shelter of our rock, Jesus Christ. Thank you for revealing your glory to us through your Word and sacraments. Thank you for forgiving our sins and giving us peace and rest. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.
Questions for Younger Children
- Where did God hide Moses to keep him safe while his glory passed by?
- Jesus is like that “safe rock” for us. When are times that you feel scared, worried, or nervous? How does it help to know that Jesus is always with you?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
- Moses had a very big job leading God’s people through the wilderness. What are some things that can make kids feel tired, frustrated, or overwhelmed?
- Why couldn’t Moses look directly at God’s holy glory? How does God show us his grace and love today without scaring us?
Questions for Middle School and Above
- The devotion says that Jesus is our safe rock. What do you think that means?
- How does God’s Word in Holy Baptism and Holy Communion “safely hide” us when we face doubts or guilt?
