As former slaves to the Egyptians, the Israelites knew how to take orders. God gives many orders, commandments and specific directives after working through Moses to lead them from slavery to salvation. Our God, the same God of Israel wants more than obedience as slaves. He wants a solid, deep, abiding, no turning back relationship with His people. He WANTS to be with them, day and night.
The book of Exodus is full of God’s directives for their protection. But there are even more specific directives on how to prepare a place for His Presence to dwell among them. The final chapter of Exodus repeats the phrase “just as the LORD commanded” as proof that Moses and the rest of God’s people did exactly what He wanted them to do.
The reward of obedience was a deeper, trusting relationship of love between God and man. As man obeyed and moved closer to God, God moved in to be with man.
The LORD’S Glory Filled the Tabernacle!
“Then the cloud covered the Tabernacle, and the glorious presence of the LORD filled it. Moses was no longer able to enter the Tabernacle because the cloud had settled down over it, and the Tabernacle was filled with the awesome glory of the LORD.”
“Now whenever the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle and moved, the people of Israel would set out on their journey, following it. But if the cloud stayed, they would stay until it moved again. The cloud of the LORD rested on the Tabernacle during the day, and at night there was fire in the cloud so all the people of Israel could see it. This continued throughout all their journeys.” Exodus 40, NLT
From the time we are born, we obey our parents because they know what is best for us as children. The children of God first obey then they are guided by God who dwells with them, day and night, who loves them but sends the on a journey, taking the “scenic tour” through the wilderness, as He teaches them more about Him.
God Story teaches us about His protection and guidance. Sometimes we feel as though we are taking the “scenic route” through the wilderness instead of doing “great things” for God, don’t we? But, what I know is this: God never leaves. He is always at work. He never sleeps. He is always with us, guiding us by day and night. Sometimes we need to recognize the time to “stay” as well as the time to “move” as God directs. And be content in the wait as well as the go. When we do, love deepens for God and for each other.
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for being with us. May we cherish our relationship with You more and be encouraged by it today. In Jesus Name, Amen
