Exodus 36-37

It may be tempting to gloss over the next few days of reading, as you may not think that details about the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings aren’t all that interesting. “After all,” one may surmise, “I don’t really see how I can glean anything about the heart of God from these chapters, and certainly none of this is relevant to my life here and now.” If you are prone to believe something similar, let me offer you a few insights from today’s reading that I believe are significant:

·       Lest they glory in their actions, the Bible notes that it was the LORD who put “skill and intelligence” into those who were tasked with putting together the tabernacle and its furnishings (v. 1). Any good in us comes from God, as it is He who works in us “both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). Be careful to boast in yourself when it is the Holy Spirit within you who is producing the fruit. 

·       God stirred the hearts of those who donated to and came to work on the tent and all that was to go inside it. In fact, the people were so generous with their contributions that Moses had to tell them to stop bringing their freewill offerings, for they had more than enough to do what God had tasked them with (vv. 2-7). Two things immediately come to mind when I dwell on this passage. First, can you imagine what the body of Christ could accomplish if everyone practiced wise, biblical stewardship? And second, when God calls for the Church (or individuals) to do something, He is fully capable of mobilizing those who are needed to make His plans come to fruition. Our response is to say “yes” from the outset instead of basing our obedience on whether His call makes sense on paper. 

·       The tent and furnishings were constructed just as God commanded them to be done. Note that Scripture does not record that the skilled craftsmen debated whether there was a better way, nor are we presented with any rebellious attempts by the workers to take shortcuts so the process would be more efficient or effective. They fully obeyed what God had instructed. It’s often said that partial obedience is disobedience. I wonder how many of us are not living entirely within God’s design for marriage, family life, work, and/or ministry because we think our plans—even in one “minor” aspect of these areas—are better than the One who created the world and all that is in it? 

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Journal responses to the following prompts:

·       Are you quick to boast in the Spirit’s work in you? Or, do you properly attribute to God the work He is doing in your life?

·       If God calls you to do something that seems daunting, are you willing to obey—even if you cannot see how His plans will come to pass?