Day 44

Read: Exodus 37:1 – 39:31

Today’s reading details the precise construction of the Tabernacle’s furniture and the priests’ garments. It emphasizes obedience, excellence, and the anticipation of God’s presence. Just as Bezalel and his team followed God’s design with careful detail, we are called to use our talents for God’s glory and recognize that through Christ, we are now the temple of the Holy Spirit.

Today’s reading repeatedly highlights that the work was done “as the Lord commanded Moses”, demonstrating that true worship involves obedience to God’s instructions, not just sincerity in our efforts. The Ark of the Covenant, the Table, the Lampstand, and the Altars were crafted with precision to reflect God’s holiness and His desire to dwell among His people.

Side note: At our recent Bible study meeting this past Wednesday, someone mentioned that women aren’t very prominent in the Bible. Yet, in today’s reading something stood out to me. Exodus 38:8 mentions “women who served” and this is important because although little is known about them (also mentioned in 1 Samuel 2:22), this group of women is the only group or class singled out for mention as having made a specific donation used for certain items. Pretty interesting right? Easy to overlook too!

Bezalel was filled with the Spirit to do his work with skill. This teaches us that our talents – whether creative, organizational, or practical – are to be used for His glory. We should aim for excellence rather than mediocrity. The detailed garments for Aaron reminds us that our service should be set apart and holy.

Remember, what we are reading in the Old Testament is focused on the old covenant. However, the elements – particularly the Ark of the Covenant with its mercy seat – point directly to Christ (the new covenant in the New Testament). We are reading the Bible chronologically so we are currently reading/learning about the old covenants. As we read, we can see how God has always, ALWAYS, been good. The atonement and forgiveness we receive through Jesus allows us to approach God, making our hearts a place where His presence dwells. We don’t need the Tabernacle to approach God, we just need Jesus.

Ask yourself: In what area of my life am I failing to follow the “pattern/blueprint/commands” God has set for me? How can I bring my work and actions to a higher standard of obedience?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of being a dwelling place for Your presence through Jesus Christ. Help me, like the artisans in Exodus, to use my gifts with diligence and obedience. May my life be a well-crafted, holy offering to You. Amen.