Break the status quo by drawing near to God in total obedience.

Status quo—It is the current state of existence. It is comfort and convenience. It is the safe and familiar. Mundane. Expected. It’s the societal norm—the way we have always been doing it.

Exodus 19–20:21

God recently delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt. Israel assembled near the Mountain of God (Mount Sinai), awaiting instruction.

Israel is to follow God’s instruction:

1. To consecrate themselves and prepare for His arrival.
2. To maintain a distance—don’t touch the mountain.
3. To obey everything He commands.

Why? Because God rescued Israel, Israel now belongs to Him—19:4; 20:2. God desires Israel to be His treasured possession, a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation (19:5–6).

And how does Israel respond? First, with their mouths—”Everything He says we will do (19:8).” Second, by shrinking back (20:18, 21). Israel offered affirmation without participation. In Exodus 32, they create an idol while Moses receives the law from God.

In Matthew 5, 6, and 7, God descends on top of another mountain to instruct people on how to enter His kingdom and live as part of His kingdom. The masses gathered to hear Jesus speak but then later gathered to call for His crucifixion.

Break the status quo:

Consecrate yourself—It doesn’t mean clean yourself up; instead, prepare yourself to be cleaned.

Draw near—You can’t draw near to God if you are unaware or unconcerned about His presence.

Live it out—How are you/we living in the status quo, and what is one thing God is calling us to do right now? How will you love God better? How will you love others better?