“I have seen these people,” the LORD said to Moses, “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. Then I will make you into a great nation.” But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God. . . .Then the LORD relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened. Exodus 32:9-11,14

God does not change his mind like we change our mind. We change our mind because we have limited perspective on things. Others help us see beyond our knowledge and understand the greater impact. We change our mind because our emotions fluctuate, with highs and lows. Suddenly we think more clearly.

God has unlimited understanding and perspective, however he changes his direction when we change ours. God sought to destroy the Israelites until Moses made a plea of salvation. God already knew Moses would step in, but used the moment to elevate Moses’ position and stature amongst the people. Moses took responsibility for the others. He became a type of Christ, who intercedes for us before the Father.

So God will change his mind once he sees how we respond in obedience, a response he already knew about.