Reference

Exodus 33
Speaking to God Our Friend
Before Moses goes back up the mountain to meet with God, there is a short interacting between God and the people.  It is significant, but often overlooked.  God says in verse 3 that when they arrive at the Promised Land “He will not go up in their midst”.  This grieves and scares the people.  They know they need God, but they continue to behave as if God is not good enough to them.