Today we read Exodus 35-40.The book of Exodus closes with a detailed account of the construction of the Tabernacle, the new place of residence for the God of Israel as he accompanies his people in Canaan. Notice the many steps involved in the project: Moses organizes the needed workers and finished work; the Tabernacle is erected and the furniture set in place; and finally the glory of the Lord fills the Tabernacle, showing God’s pleasure with the structure. From start to finish, the entire project is done “just as the Lord had commanded Moses.”
Chapter 35: step1: Preparation
Chapter 36-39 step 2: Construction (36:1-39:31)
step 3: Inspection (39:2-39:43)
Chapter 40 step 4: Erection (1-33)
step 5: Occupation (34-38)
God has always sought to dwell in the midst of his people. Think back to the opening chapters of Genesis, and what do you find? Adam and Eve in the garden. And in the cool of the evening God walks through the garden, seeking face-to-face fellowship with his creation.
In today’s reading, God’s glory takes up residence in the Tabernacle in order to accompany the Israelites on their journey to Canaan. Later in Israel’s history, God’s presence will reside in Solomon’s magnificent Temple. And today God’s Holy Spirit indwells every child of God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). The lesson is clear: God want to identify himself with those who are truly his. More specifically, God wants to identify himself with you, fellowship with you, spend time with you, help you get to know him better.
How do you go about building a relationship like that? Jot down the first five things that come to mind. Now use your list to help you organize your day and assign priorities to your activities. Place “Time with God” at the top of the list. After all, that’s his greatest desire: to walk and talk with you! If that’s your greatest desire, tell him so right now.
–Excerpt from Daily Walk Bible
Day by Day with Billy Graham – What is God Like?
I believe it is possible to know what God is like. The Bible declares that God is Spirit, that He is not limited to body; He is not limited to shape; He is not limited to force; He is not limited to boundaries or bonds; He is absolutely immeasurable. Thousands of people are trying to limit God to certain spheres, and relegate Him to certain categories that are the product of their own speculation. There is no limit to God. There is no limit to His wisdom. There is no limit to His power. There is no limit to His love. There is no limit to His mercy. Men change, fashions change, conditions and circumstances change, but God never changes.
Daily Prayer
I limit You so many times, Lord. Forgive my finite mind and fill me with Your wisdom, power, and mercy, so that I can touch those You love this day.
“If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!”
Psalm 139:8 ESV