Lingering at the Tabernacle: Lessons from Joshua in Exodus 33:11
In a world that often glorifies productivity, the concept of "lingering" can feel countercultural. Yet, in Exodus 33:11, we are presented with a profound example of someone who chose to linger—not in idleness but in pursuit of something far greater. The passage says, “The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent.”
This simple verse reveals a great deal about Joshua’s heart for God and his hunger for deeper intimacy. For Christians today, his example offers a challenge and an invitation to reconsider how we approach time in God’s presence and how we allow it to shape our lives.
The Significance of Joshua’s Lingering
At this point in the story of Exodus, Joshua is primarily known as Moses’ assistant, someone who served faithfully at Moses’ side. Yet, Exodus 33:11 hints that Joshua’s spiritual journey extended far beyond his official duties. After Moses, the leader of Israel, returned to the camp, Joshua stayed behind. The tent, also referred to as the “tent of meeting,” was where Moses met with God, speaking with Him as one would with a friend. Joshua had the privilege of witnessing these profound encounters, but his lingering went beyond simple curiosity.
Joshua’s choice to remain at the tabernacle was not a requirement of his role. There is no indication that Moses commanded him to stay or that Joshua was fulfilling a task. Instead, his decision seems to have been driven by a desire to remain close to the presence of God. For Joshua, the opportunity to dwell in the atmosphere of God’s holiness was not something to be rushed or taken lightly.
A Heart Postured for God
Joshua’s lingering reflects a heart that prioritized God above all else. He wasn’t seeking recognition, nor was he rushing to prepare for the next assignment. Instead, he modeled what it means to be wholly devoted to God, valuing His presence above any other responsibility or distraction.
This hunger for God would later define Joshua’s life and leadership. As the one chosen to succeed Moses and lead Israel into the Promised Land, Joshua’s time at the tabernacle was likely instrumental in preparing him for the challenges ahead. Long before he led armies or gave commands, Joshua learned to wait, worship, and draw near to the source of his strength.
What It Means for Christians Today
Joshua’s example presents a challenge to modern believers. In today’s fast-paced world, lingering in God’s presence is often overshadowed by the demands of work, family, and technology. Even within spiritual practices, there’s a temptation to approach God with a checklist mentality: read the Bible, say a quick prayer, and move on. But Joshua’s example reminds us that true intimacy with God comes from unhurried time in His presence.
For Christians, lingering doesn’t mean neglecting responsibilities or avoiding the practical aspects of life. Instead, it means creating space for God to work deeply in our hearts. It’s about prioritizing relationship over routine and seeking His presence not just for what He can give but for who He is.
Lessons from Joshua’s Example
Seek Intimacy, Not Just Answers - Joshua didn’t linger at the tabernacle for specific instructions or blessings. He lingered because he valued God’s presence. Similarly, our time with God should be about deepening our relationship with Him, not just seeking solutions to our problems.
Embrace the Power of Stillness - In a culture that prizes constant activity, stillness can feel uncomfortable. Yet, it is often in the quiet moments of lingering that we hear God’s voice most clearly and experience His peace most deeply.
Recognize the Transformative Power of God’s Presence - Joshua’s lingering prepared him for leadership. It equipped him with faith, courage, and wisdom for the challenges ahead. For Christians, time in God’s presence transforms our hearts and minds, aligning us with His will and enabling us to walk confidently in our calling.
Practical Ways to Linger in God’s Presence
If lingering in God’s presence feels foreign or challenging, here are some practical ways to incorporate it into your daily life:
Set Aside Dedicated Time: Begin or end your day with unhurried time for prayer and reflection. Turn off distractions and allow yourself to focus solely on God.
Meditate on Scripture: Choose a passage to read slowly, reflecting on its meaning and asking God to reveal Himself through His Word.
Practice Worship: Spend time in worship, whether through singing, listening to worship music, or simply sitting in awe of God’s greatness.
Cultivate Silence: Create moments of silence to listen for God’s voice, resisting the urge to fill the space with noise or activity.
The Reward of Lingering
For Joshua, lingering in God’s presence wasn’t a waste of time—it was an investment in his spiritual foundation. That time at the tabernacle prepared him to face the challenges of leading Israel, from conquering enemies to guiding the people in faithfulness to God.
For Christians today, the reward of lingering is just as profound. In God’s presence, we find peace for our anxieties, strength for our trials, and clarity for our decisions. More importantly, we grow in our understanding of who God is and who we are in Him.
As we reflect on Joshua’s example, may we develop a heart that longs to linger in God’s presence—not out of obligation but out of love and reverence. Let us remember that true transformation happens not in our striving but in our surrender, as we choose to remain close to the One who leads, restores, and equips us for every step of our journey.
Challenge for Reflection: This week, take time to linger in God’s presence. Start with an extra five or ten minutes in prayer, worship, or quiet reflection. Notice how God meets you in that space and how it impacts your day. Like Joshua, may you find that the time spent in His presence is never wasted but always fruitful.
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