My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest"

(Exodus 33:14)

Our hearts would ask a PROGRAMME–an outline sent from Heaven–
But no such chart is granted – a life-map is not given;
Instead, there comes a PROMISE – a promise for each day–
"My Presence shall go with thee – My presence all the way."

Our human hearts might urge us for PERSON meet to ask;
Some kindred soul to join us, in life’s stupendous task;
This, too, may be ungranted – perchance that we might know
The greatness of His PRESENCE, while toiling here below.<
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Provision and PROTECTION we rightly seem to crave;
Were we of these quite certain, we think we could be brave;
But, greater than these portions can this Word come to be–
"MY Presence shall go with thee – My Presence! Mine! With thee!"

Oh, give us ears to listen! Oh, give us hearts to long!
To hear Thy wondrous promise! To heed it, and be strong!
To know Thy constant Presence–and all its promised rest;
To know it as sufficient – and knowing it – be blest.

J. Danson Smith