Exodus 32.

With a mighty move of God’s hand, Moses has led the people out of Egypt and into the desert. Moses goes up on Mount Sinai where God is giving him lots of directions and instructions for the people of Israel to follow. While he is gone the people get tired of waiting and get busy sinning.

The Lord tells Moses to get back down the mountain because his people are out of control. The Lord tells Moses, “I have seen these people, and they are a stiff necked people. Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them.”

But Moses sought the favor of the Lord his God. “O Lord,” he said, “why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with a great power and a mighty hand?...Turn from your fierce anger; relent and do not bring disaster on your people. Remember your servants Abraham, Isaac and Israel to whom you swore your own self:…”

Then the Lord relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened.

Moses no longer argues with God because he doubts his own abilities and wonders if the word of the Lord will be enough to get the job done.

Moses approaches God with confidence and petitions Him to have mercy on his people. He reminds God Almighty about his promises.  His relationship with God has matured. Moses has matured. He has faith. He has answered God’s call.