How powerful were the prayers of Moses? He spoke, and nation-shattering plagues assaulted Egypt. He cried out to God and the Red Sea parted. Moses agonized in intercession and God relented in His intention to destroy the sinful Israelites. He prayed and God sent manna from heaven and water from a rock. Moses’ prayers clearly had clout.
But there was one prayer God did not grant his servant, and that was to rescind the punishment for his own sin. Moses had been angry with the rebellious Hebrews and as a result had publicly dishonored God. In response to Moses’ insolence, God declared that he would no longer be allowed to enter the Promised Land.
As time passed, Moses may have hoped that the consequences of his sin had dissipated. Perhaps God had changed His mind? Maybe if Moses asked once more, this time the penalty would be lifted. But it was not. In fact, God commanded Moses to never mention it again. God loves us with an infinite love. Yet He is also God. We cannot manipulate Him. We cannot adjust Him to suit our whims or changes of heart. He is God and His will, will be done. That fact ought to cause us to tremble.