Exodus

Read This Week: Exodus 40

In all the travels of the Israelites, whenever the cloud lifted from above the tabernacle, they would set out; but if the cloud did not lift, they did not set out—until the day it lifted. So the cloud of the Lord was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the Israelites during all their travels.
– Exodus 40:36-38 NIV

Exodus 40 is not one of the most dramatic chapters in our Journey to Freedom study. There are no plagues, no parting seas, just many instructions about furniture placement and priestly attire. But beneath the surface of this meticulous setup of the Tabernacle lies a blueprint for something timeless and relevant to us even today. It shows us how structure, intentionality, and presence transform the routine of our daily lives into moments in which we can worship and honor God.

By the end of the book, the Israelites have been through a lot. They’ve endured slavery, a dramatic escape, and a rollercoaster of faith and failure in the wilderness. God gave Moses the Tabernacle plans back in chapters 25-31, and after a golden calf detour, the people finally get it together in chapters 35-39 to build it. Chapter 40 represents the conclusion of construction and the setup. Once the assembly instructions are made final and carried out, the presence of God moves in. The children of Israel set up the tent, placed the ark, hung the curtains, arranged the table, lit the lamps, burned the incense, anointed the altar, washed up, and dressed Aaron and his sons. It’s repetitive and detailed, but we soon realize this isn’t just logistics or particulars. It’s about creating a space where a holy God can dwell with His imperfect but loved people.

To reiterate a point from previous chapters, the order in Exodus 40 isn’t just busywork; it’s foundational. The Tabernacle wasn’t thrown together haphazardly; every pole, curtain, and basin had a place and purpose. This reflects a more profound truth to glean from and apply to our Christian walks: chaos doesn’t invite connection, but intentionality does. God didn’t need a tent to exist, but the Israelites needed a tangible way to relate to Him. The structure gave them that. It also challenges us to think about our lives and seek order where chaos may occur. It could be a cluttered lifestyle, a packed schedule, neglected relationships, or an inability to serve. The Bible encourages us to bring order to these things; however small the step, it can make room for something greater. It’s not about perfection; it’s about purpose. It could motivate us to clear the calendar, be intentional with family and friends, or have that conversation we’ve wanted to have. Small acts of order can become spaces to get closer to God and others and be on mission where the Lord is moving.

The pinnacle of the chapter comes in verse 34, then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle. After all the work, God’s presence arrives, so strong that Moses can’t even enter. This culmination of all the instructions and work is the payoff. It is the whole point of the blueprints and obedience. Where it gets practical for us is the understanding that diligence and discipline invite presence. God’s people didn’t sit back and wait for Him to appear. They built something, and He filled it. It’s not that we earn God’s attention (or life’s rewards) but that we create room and places for Him to move and work in us. What we are building right now could welcome something bigger.

One last subtle undertone in our journey through Exodus that we see here is that the Tabernacle isn’t permanent. It’s portable and designed for people on the move. The cloud lifts and shifts, signaling when it’s time to go (v. 36-38). This reminder alerts us that even the most sacred setups in life can be temporary. Jobs change, seasons end, kids grow up. The challenge is to invest fully in the moment without clinging to it forever. Practically, this means holding things loosely. We should build the Tabernacle and pour our hearts into it, but we shouldn’t be surprised when the cloud moves. The Scriptures invite us to trust that the God who fills the tent will guide our lives as we move ahead.

Exodus is about transformation. Wood, fabric, and oil aren’t inherently holy until they’re arranged with purpose and met by God’s presence. The same goes for us. Our routines, work, and small faithfulness acts are foundational. They can become something more when we offer them up with intention and the Holy Spirit’s guidance. We should live in freedom and be deliberate to see what Jesus will do. Remember, the cloud moves, and we can be ready if we follow God.

Read This Week: Exodus 39

The woven garments worn for ministering in the sanctuary, both the sacred garments for Aaron the priest and the garments for his sons when serving as priests. The Israelites had done all the work just as the Lord had commanded Moses. Moses inspected the work and saw that they had done it just as the Lord had commanded. So Moses blessed them. – Exodus 39:41-43 NIV

We can easily gravitate toward the dramatic stories we’ve read when we think about our study of Exodus and the journey to freedom. But tucked between these high-octane moments are quieter chapters (36-39), rich with meaning, that invite us to slow down, listen, and meditate more on what we’re learning. Exodus 39 is one such section. Like the previous three chapters, it’s not a tale of miracles or battles but a meticulous account of craftsmanship, obedience, and the sacred act of preparing for worship. Yet, within its detailed descriptions of priestly garments and Tabernacle furnishings lies a timeless message for us today.

At first glance, this part might feel repetitive or overly technical given the last several weeks. But this repetition isn’t redundancy—it’s revelation. It shows a people responding to God’s voice with careful, faithful action. One recurring and striking feature noted before is the emphasis on skilled work and excellence for the glory of God, mattering for those called to serve Him. Whether you’re a business person, a parent, a teacher, or a programmer, the way you approach your work reflects your devotion not only to the task but to the Creator. The Israelites didn’t cut corners or rush the job, even though they were in the wilderness with limited resources. They gave their best because it was for God. Like Colossians 3:23 says: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord. It challenges us as Christians to bring that mindset to our daily tasks. To have the right heart attitude that can transform our impact with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Perhaps the most impactful phrase in the chapter is repeated several times, as the Lord had commanded Moses (v. 1, 5, 7). The workers didn’t improvise or add their own additions. They followed God’s pattern, trusting that His design was perfect. This obedience wasn’t blind; it was purposeful, rooted in faith, respect, and a desire to honor God’s presence. In our lives, obedience can feel restrictive. We’re wired to innovate, question, and forge our paths. But there’s freedom in trusting God’s instructions, even when they don’t entirely make sense to us. Maybe it’s a call to forgive when we’d rather hold a grudge, to give when we’d rather hold on, or to wait when we’d like to act. Like the Israelites, we’re invited to align our actions with God’s will and the bigger purpose, even one we don’t always see in full.

The chapter ends with a moment of completion in verse 32. Moses inspects everything, sees it’s done according to God’s command, and blesses the people (v. 43). The priestly garments weren’t just fashion statements. They symbolized holiness, intercession, and service. Every stitch and hammer stroke was an act of worship, an invitation for God’s presence. It’s another reminder to prepare room for God in our lives. It might not involve sewing tunics or building altars. Still, it could mean making time for prayer amid a hectic schedule, cultivating gratitude instead of grumbling, or serving others with our talents. Our tabernacle might be our homes, workplaces, relationships, or any space where God’s presence can be seen through our intentionality.

It is important to note that these last few chapters aren’t a call to legalism or perfectionism. They’re an invitation to live purposefully, to see our work and obedience as part of something sacred. It is a call to embrace whatever our craft, vocation, or calling is—writing code, raising kids, teaching a class, and doing it well. The blessing is that God guides and helps us through Scripture, wise counsel, or quiet prompting. We have to trust when God speaks to us, even when it’s counterintuitive to human thinking.

As Moses blessed the people after their work was done, there’s a promise in there for us, too. When we align our efforts with God’s purposes, we don’t just build things; we live purposefully. We develop a deep, passionate connection to God and the mission He has laid out for us. That’s why we don’t just follow the rules when we’re obedient; we follow Jesus. This chapter reminds us that the smallest acts, done in faith, ripple into eternity.

Read This Week: Exodus 38

They made the bronze basin and its bronze stand from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the tent of meeting. Next they made the courtyard. The south side was a hundred cubits long and had curtains of finely twisted linen, with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases, and with silver hooks and bands on the posts. – Exodus 38:8-10 NIV

Exodus 38 is another fascinating glimpse into the construction of the Tabernacle that we have studied for the last several weeks. Still, beyond the vast and intricate measurements and materials, it reveals yet another lesson for us in our modern walks. It demonstrates, as only the Bible can, the power of community and the importance of accountability in the stewardship of our gifts, talents, and resources. No single person built the Tabernacle. It was a collective effort, with each Israelite contributing time, skills, and labor. This impact felt and seen through a group of people is not unlike how God’s work operates today. Every person in the Body has a role, and every one of their contributions is essential no matter the size, significance, or scope.

Everyone has something to give. Exodus 38:24-31 records the exact amounts of gold, silver, and bronze used for the Tabernacle, showing that many people gave willingly. Some contributed large quantities of gold, others gave silver or bronze. Some worked with their hands, crafting and assembling the pieces. Others contributed in different ways. Not everyone gave the same thing, but every gift was essential. This reflects a key truth that a community’s strength lies in the varied service and offerings of its people. In the church, workplace, or family, some people lead, others support behind the scenes, and others give financially, but all play a part.

We must recognize that our role – no matter how small -matters in our churches, workplaces, friend groups, and family. We can’t allow the enemy and our own brokenness to cause us to compare ourselves to others. Instead, we should serve out of what God has given us and celebrate the unique ways we are all called to give and be a part of the mission. We should encourage and uplift others in their callings and roles while understanding that our work brings glory to the Lord and is valuable when done for Him.

When we live in unity of our gifts and contributions, we realize that our spiritual purpose brings God’s presence. The Israelites were united in one purpose: building a dwelling place for God. Their unity in giving and working led to something far greater than individual efforts. It led to a sacred space where God’s presence would dwell among them. The same principle applies today. When a community of faith comes together with a shared purpose and a spirit of generosity, God’s presence and blessing follow. Working together with others is meaningful and fulfilling, and Father God is pleased when we seek unity and peace and avoid division and competition. He blesses us in multiple ways when we work together in step with His purposes.

Serving together with God’s heart and being good stewards of our gifts, talents, time, and treasure requires accountability. This chapter’s detailed record of materials shows that nothing was wasted, misused, or unaccounted for. This level of transparency reinforces the critical point that stewardship requires integrity. Whether handling finances, managing people, or leading a project, accountability ensures that resources are used wisely. In today’s world, where trust can be easily broken, honest and responsible stewardship builds credibility and strengthens a community.

God’s people should always practice transparency and honesty in decision-making. When we do that and hold ourselves accountable for how we use our resources, we raise the level of integrity among the family of God and strengthen our trust in Jesus and one another.

Exodus 38 is a powerful reminder to use our gifts and resources to contribute to God’s work. It encourages us to value the places and roles of others in the Body, and it challenges us to steward what we have with honesty and accountability. By embracing these principles, we can build strong, God-honoring communities where everyone’s role is valued, and every resource is used wisely.

Read This Week: Exodus 37

Bezalel made the ark of acacia wood—two and a half cubits long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high. He overlaid it with pure gold, both inside and out, and made a gold molding around it. He cast four gold rings for it and fastened them to its four feet. – Exodus 37:1-3 NIV

Exodus 37 details the construction of sacred items for the Tabernacle that we were introduced to in chapter 36. Bezalel, the adept craftsman, is at the center of the work, and his efforts show us more than just a record of furniture-building and artisan skill. It is a testimony of the precision, devotion, and beauty of obedience to God’s commands and following Him according to the design He lays out.

Bezalel, who was chosen by God and filled with His Spirit (Exodus 31:1-5), was not merely constructing objects. He was fulfilling divine instructions with excellence and passion to serve the Lord. Each piece he made was crafted according to the detailed blueprint given to Moses, showing that God values faithfulness in the most minor details. The Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense are not just ancient artifacts but sacred symbols of God’s presence and provision.

The Ark, overlaid with pure gold and adorned with cherubim, was the physical representation of God’s earthly throne. The Table of Showbread symbolizes God’s ongoing love and attention to the needs of His people, emphasizing our need for dependence on Him. The Golden Lampstand provided light in the holy place, representing the guidance and illumination of truth and the guidance of God’s presence in our lives. The Altar of Incense signified the prayers of the people rising to heaven, a beautiful reminder of the connection between God and His people that we can experience daily.

Just like the last chapter of our study, we see that excellence is a spiritual thing. Bezalel’s craftsmanship was meticulous, showing that work, when done with diligence and faithfulness, is worship. No matter what we attempt or are called to, we should strive for excellence as a reflection of God’s heart and character.

Every measurement and material used aligned with God’s instructions. This shows that obedience to God’s Word, even in what seems like minor details, leads to something greater than we can foresee in our finite thinking and plans. It is not about personal preference or the ideas we have laid out but about submitting to Father God’s divine wisdom to fulfill a greater purpose. We often want to improvise or take shortcuts, but true fulfillment comes in following Jesus’ design.

Bezalel was filled with the Spirit to accomplish the task ahead. Likewise, when God calls us to something, He always provides the necessary skills, gifting, resources, and pathway to fulfill it. This example should encourage us in times of doubt, knowing that God does not send us into assignments unprepared. He supplies the wisdom, strength, and perseverance needed to accomplish His mission.

The items constructed in Exodus 37 were meant to encourage worship and reverence. We are challenged to consider how we create sacred spaces in our own lives, whether in our homes, workplaces, or churches, to keep our focus on God. It asks: do we cultivate an environment where worship and prayer are priorities, or do distractions take over? Just as the Israelites designated holy objects, we can also establish discipline, practices, and places that draw us closer to God.

As we reflect on God’s word in this Week in the Life, we should consider how we approach our own work and responsibilities. Are we diligent and faithful, knowing that even the smallest tasks can be an act of worship? Are we aligning our actions with God’s instructions, trusting that obedience leads to His success and more significant outcomes?

We should think and pray about how we use our God-given skills and if we steward them wisely and dedicate them to something meaningful instead of wasting them or underutilizing them. Like Bezalel, we all have a role in building something that glorifies God – whether it’s a physical creation, a ministry, a business, or an act of service. May we use our God-given abilities to build something that honors the Lord, demonstrating excellence, obedience, and devotion in all we do.

Read This Week: Exodus 36

Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: “No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary.” And so the people were restrained from bringing more, because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work. All those who were skilled among the workers made the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, with cherubim woven into them by expert hands. – Exodus 36:6-8 NIV

Exodus 36 is a powerful chapter highlighting the construction of the Tabernacle, the sacred dwelling place for God among His people that has been spoken about so much throughout the book. This particular passage not only reveals once again the extraordinary craftsmanship of people like Bezalel and Oholiab but also provides a good lesson for us on generosity, stewardship, and excellence in serving God. These are recurring themes in this section of Exodus and ones that we, as believers, can always use as reminders in our Christian walks.

In verses 3-7, Moses called for offerings to support the construction of the Tabernacle, and the people responded well with an outpouring of generosity. They gave so much that the artisans had to tell Moses to stop collecting contributions just like they had before (v. 6-7). As we saw last week, willing hearts among God’s people matter. The Israelites gave freely and abundantly, demonstrating that generosity flows from a willing heart. Our giving, whether of our time, talent, or resources, should be motivated by worship of the Lord and love for Him and others, not obligation (2 Corinthians 9:7).

God provides more than enough, so when we trust Him with our resources, He multiplies them beyond what is needed. This challenges us to move from a scarcity mindset to one of faith and abundance. Moses discerned that they had received more than required. In today’s world, where excess is often celebrated, wise leaders know when to stop accumulating and start stewarding well. Christians must seek and listen to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and recognize this and when to use our overflow to glorify God and bless others.

The first part of the chapter and a large part of the rest of it brings to life the excellence in skill and calling and the way the Lord gifts his people to serve others and bring honor to Himself. Bezalel, Oholiab, and other skilled workers were appointed to construct the Tabernacle according to God’s instructions. They didn’t cut corners or rush the process; they built with precision and devotion. Whether in business, ministry, or personal pursuits, doing our work with excellence reflects God’s nature (Colossians 3:23).

This is an example of how calling and gifting work together. God specifically chose and equipped Bezalel and Oholiab for this task. When we align our skills with our divine calling, we serve with greater impact. The artisans followed God’s blueprint exactly. Likewise, small acts of faithfulness in our work and relationships shape the larger picture of His plan in our respective walks, vocations, and areas of service. A life of generosity and excellence fulfills God’s purposes in ways beyond what we can imagine and brings greater impact from our lives to the kingdom.

We are called to give freely, serve diligently, and steward wisely, knowing that when we offer our best to God, He does more than we could ever ask or think. As many times before in this journey to freedom study, we are motivated in our lives by the Scriptures to be generous with our resources or talents. We are encouraged to serve with excellence in the work God has called us to do. We are exhorted to trust that God provides more than enough when we give willingly. Let’s strive to live with the same heart of generosity and dedication that built the Tabernacle, creating something that glorifies God and blesses others.

Read This Week: Exodus 35

Then the whole Israelite community withdrew from Moses’ presence, and everyone who was willing and whose heart moved them came and brought an offering to the Lord for the work on the tent of meeting, for all its service, and for the sacred garments. All who were willing, men and women alike, came and brought gold jewelry of all kinds: brooches, earrings, rings and ornaments. They all presented their gold as a wave offering to the Lord. – Exodus 35:20-22 NIV

The wilderness had been a place of trials and transformation for Israel. They have seen God’s power in the plagues of Egypt, walked through the parted sea, and trembled at Mount Sinai as the Lord spoke. But they have also disobeyed and stumbled. They built a golden calf when impatience and doubt overtook them in their act of unbelief. In Exodus 35, the people stand before Moses again, awaiting his words and His directive from the Lord. This time, the call was not one of judgment but of restoration.

Moses lifted his voice and reminded them first of the Sabbath. He tells them that they are commanded to rest before anything else, before labor or giving, before the work of their hands begins. For six days, work is to be done, but the seventh is a day of sacred rest to the Lord, he declared to the children of Israel. It was as if God was teaching them that their value did not come from their efforts but their relationship with Him. Their inherent value came from being made in His image and being His chosen people. Their work would be important and necessary, but it was not the foundation of their identity. Their identity was rooted in their connection to God and their obedience and trust in Him.

After this, Moses gave them their work to build the Tabernacle, the very dwelling place of God among them. But this was no ordinary construction project. It would not be built by forced labor or taxation. Instead, it would come from the willing. Anyone who is willing and whose heart moves you come and bring an offering to the Lord, Moses instructed. The people responded with a passion that had not been seen since they began their journey to freedom from Egypt. Men and women alike came forward, their arms full of treasures: gold, silver, bronze, fine linen, and acacia wood.

Some brought their possessions, while others offered the work of their hands—spinning yarn, weaving fabrics, crafting precious metals. There was no reluctance, no hesitation. The same people who had once hoarded their gold for an idol now poured it out joyfully before the Lord.

Among them were two men whom God had set apart for a special purpose: Bezalel and Oholiab. They were not priests or warriors, but craftsmen. The Spirit of God had filled them with skill, making them master builders, engravers, and designers. In them, artistry was not just a trade—it was a divine calling. They were not only talented but also teachers, equipped to instruct others in the sacred work. As they took up their tools, shaping wood and hammering gold, they were not merely building a tent; they were creating a place where heaven and earth would meet.

The beautiful thing here is the entire community played a role. Some gave, some built, some taught, but all contributed in their own way. And in the end, the abundance was so great that Moses had to tell them to stop bringing gifts. They had more than enough. This word picture indicates the theological implications of this chapter and what happens when God’s people come together with willing hearts. It teaches us that obedience starts with rest, that generosity is not about the size of the gift but the posture of the heart toward Father God, and that every skill—whether in art, craftsmanship, or leadership—can be used for God’s glory.

As we read this passage in A Week in the Life, we are challenged with questions to reflect on. Do we rest in God’s provision and identity as image bearers, or do we define ourselves by endless labor? Do we give freely, or do we hold tightly to what we have? And do we see our talents as ordinary, or do we recognize them as part of God’s plan? Being made in the image of God is enough. Giving out of the generous heart God gives us is enough. And doing all for God’s glory in every arena, profession, community, and family is enough. All He desires from us is a willing heart to serve Him.

The Israelites, like us, were not perfect, but when the time came, they answered the call with joy and dedication. May we do the same.

Read This Week: Exodus 34

Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the Lord. And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. – Exodus 34:5-7 NIV

Exodus 34 is a pivotal chapter in the biblical narrative, marking the renewal of God’s covenant with Israel after their failure with the golden calf. This passage has a lot of theological significance, practical wisdom about second chances, and a strong demonstration of God’s mercy and justice.

One of the most powerful moments in the chapter occurs in verses 6-7, where God proclaims His name and character to the people of Israel: The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished. This self-revelation provides a balanced picture of the Lord’s nature – His immense mercy and unwavering justice. Moses knows this about the person of God, but given all that has taken place on the journey to freedom, he needs to hear that Yahweh is both forgiving and just, compassionate yet righteous. We need to be reminded of this regularly. Understanding this truth helps us appreciate the grace we receive while also acknowledging the need for personal accountability.

After Israel’s grievous sin of idolatry in Exodus 32, one might think that God would be well within his right to abandon them. Instead, He renews His covenant, demonstrating His willingness to restore and redeem. This act of unmerited mercy is a strong reminder that failure is not final with Father God. The Bible is explicit in multiple places that when we repent, He is faithful to forgive and renew His relationship with us. Just as He gave Israel a second chance, He extends His grace to us every day.

But His holiness still demands faithfulness to His word. Because of this, God instructs Israel to uphold His commandments and remain distinct from surrounding nations. He warns them against making treaties with idolaters and commands them to tear down pagan altars (v. 12-16). This underscores the importance of faithfulness and avoiding compromise. In our modern lives, we are similarly called to be set apart, maintaining our commitment to God even while constantly facing cultural pressures.

At the end of the chapter, we see a fascinating transformation. Moses’ face shines after being in God’s presence (v. 29-35). This physical change illustrates a spiritual truth: true encounters with God leave us changed. The more we seek Him, the more His presence reshapes our character and witness to the world. That’s why this section offers us hope and renewal. It shows us again that God is merciful and just, offers second chances, calls us to obedience, and transforms those who seek Him. As we reflect on this passage, let us embrace His covenant wholeheartedly, strive for faithfulness, and pursue His presence so that our lives may radiate His glory.

Read This Week: Exodus 33

And the Lord said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” – Exodus 33:19-20 NIV

Exodus 33 is a powerful chapter filled with deep theological truths and practical lessons for daily life. Taking place after the Israelites’ sin with the golden calf and a serious rupture in their relationship with Yahweh, we see Moses interceding for the people and wrestling with God for His continued presence. The way this interaction unfolds gives us insight into God’s character, spiritual direction, and the pursuit of His presence.

The first six verses illustrate the trickiness of experiencing blessings without the presence of the Lord. God tells Moses that He will send an angel to lead Israel to the Promised Land, but He will not go with them because of their stubbornness (v. 3). This is a sobering moment. God offers them victory, land, and protection yet withdraws His spiritual presence. It is sobering that outward success can be hollow without God’s hand on our lives. Many today strive for achievement, wealth, or security, but these things can become meaningless without a relationship with Jesus. The Israelites recognized this and mourned when they heard God’s words (v. 4). It’s a reminder that what we need most is not just Father God’s blessings but an abiding communion with Him.

At this point, Moses sets up a tent outside the camp where he meets with God. Whenever he enters, the people watch in awe as the pillar of cloud descends, signifying God’s abiding presence. Moses’s example of setting up a ‘Tent of Meeting’ outside the camp, where he regularly met with God, is a powerful example. We may not need a physical tent today, but we need a dedicated space and time to seek God through prayer and His Word. A great question is whether we have a ‘Tent of Meeting’ in our daily lives or a place and time where we consistently seek God’s guidance.

Moses then pleads with God in verse 15: If Your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. Moses understands that what distinguishes God’s people is not their power or wealth but His presence. He refuses to move forward without it. We often make plans and then ask God to bless them. Moses does the opposite. He refuses to move unless God is leading Him and the ones he is called to lead. This declaration is a challenge for us, especially for those in spiritual leadership positions. We must ask ourselves if we rely on God’s presence or ask Him to sanction and rubber-stamp our plans.

The glory of God is revealed at the end of the chapter as Moses makes a daring request for the Lord to show him His glory (v. 18). God responds by saying Moses cannot see His face, but He will allow him to see His back. This moment highlights God’s goodness in revealing Himself (even partially), His holiness, and His grace. Moses desired more of God, even after all he had experienced on the journey to freedom. But no matter how much we have seen or known of God, there is always more. We can’t be satisfied with a surface-level relationship, but we should desire the consistent presence of God and, like Moses, hunger for a deeper encounter.

This chapter of our study teaches us that God’s presence in our lives is more valuable than anything else. It reminds us to seek Him daily in our own “tent of meeting and prioritize His presence over personal success. It challenges us to refuse to move forward without His leading and continually desire a more profound revelation of Him. We should pray like Moses, Lord: if Your presence does not go with us, we do not want to go!

Read This Week: Exodus 32

When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.” Aaron took the gold they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. – Exodus 32:1 &4 NIV

Exodus 32 stands as one of the most dramatic and sobering chapters in the Bible. It captures a pivotal moment when the Israelites, freshly delivered from Egyptian bondage, falter in their faith and craft a golden calf to worship. This story offers us insights into human nature, the difficulty trusting in spiritual leadership, and the complexities of our relationship with God.

The Israelites’ descent into idolatry begins with a simple, relatable emotion: impatience. Moses had been on Mount Sinai for forty days and nights, and his absence created a leadership vacuum. In their insecurity, the people demanded tangible reassurance. This desire led them to Aaron, who capitulated to their request, fashioning a golden calf from their jewelry. This part of the section highlights a universal struggle. When faced with uncertainty, we make the mistake of seeking quick fixes or visible signs of security. Whether in relationships, careers, or spiritual lives, our impatience can lead us to make hasty decisions, falter our faith in God, and compromise our values.

Aaron’s role in this narrative is both fascinating and cautionary. As Moses’ brother and second-in-command, he had the authority to stand firm against the people’s demands. However, he chose appeasement over conviction. Effective leadership requires more than just holding a position of authority; it demands the courage to make unpopular decisions when necessary. Aaron’s failure reminds us that true leaders are not swayed by the crowd but guided by God’s word and principles that honor Him, even in the face of pressure.

Upon descending the mountain and witnessing the idolatry, Moses reacts with righteous indignation, breaking the covenant tablets in a dramatic display of grief and anger. Yet, what follows is equally significant: Moses intercedes for the Israelites, pleading with God to spare them from total destruction. Moses’ intercession reveals the heart of a true leader and advocate. He balances justice with mercy, understanding the gravity of the people’s sin while passionately seeking their restoration. This dual role mirrors the intercessory work seen throughout the Bible, culminating in the ultimate intercession of Jesus Christ.

Like all the ones before them, Exodus 32 challenges us to reflect on our own lives. What “golden calves” have we crafted, these tangible things we can touch or these pursuits that we rely on for security instead of trusting in God’s provision? These idols might not be physical statues, but they can manifest as ambitions, material possessions, or even relationships that take precedence over our spiritual well-being.

The chapter ultimately calls for self-examination, repentance, and a renewed commitment to faith, especially when the chips are down. It reminds us that even when we falter, there is room for redemption through sincere repentance and the divine grace of Father God.

It’s not just an ancient story of rebellion; it’s a mirror held by the Holy Spirit reflecting the ongoing struggle we face with trusting God’s word and promises, the leadership He has placed before us, and the temptation to substitute trust in the Lord with manufactured assurances. Learning from the failures and redemptive moments within this narrative gives us valuable insights to guide our walks with Jesus today.

Read This Week: Exodus 31

For six days work is to be done, but the seventh day is a day of sabbath rest, holy to the Lord. The Israelites are to observe the Sabbath, celebrating it for the generations to come as a lasting covenant. It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed. – Exodus 31:15-17 NIV

Exodus 31 is a powerful chapter highlighting the importance of divine calling, skillful work, and the necessity of rest. It introduces us to Bezalel and Oholiab, two artisans chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle, and also reaffirms the commandment of the Sabbath. It holds deep insights that are still relevant for us today, whether in our spiritual journeys, careers, or daily lives.

One of the most profound aspects is God’s direct appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab. In verses 2-6, God tells Moses that He has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge, and with all kinds of skills. Oholiab is also chosen to assist him. These men are not only talented but are also divinely equipped for their work.

This part reminds us that when God calls us to a task, He provides the necessary skills and abilities to accomplish it. Whether in ministry, family, business, or leadership, we can trust that God empowers us to fulfill our purpose. It is a call to stewardship—our skills and talents are not merely personal achievements but gifts from God meant for His glory.

God is deeply invested in the quality of work done for His purposes. The Tabernacle was functional and beautiful, with intricate designs, fine craftsmanship, and artistic expression. This shows that God values excellence, creativity, and skill in our work. Whatever our vocation, whether as contractors, engineers, teachers, or caregivers, we can take inspiration from Bezalel and Oholiab. Our work is an act of worship when done with diligence and excellence. Colossians 3:23 reinforces this principle in telling us that whatever we do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.

After describing the work of the craftsmen, the section shifts to a vital command about the observance of the Sabbath (v. 12-17). God reaffirms that the Sabbath is a sign between Him and His people, a day of rest and consecration. In our culture, which often glorifies busyness and productivity, this passage is a needed reminder of the holiness of rest. God Himself rested on the seventh day, setting an example for us and showing that rest is not a sign of weakness but an act of trust. Trust that God sustains us even when we stop working. It rejuvenates us physically, emotionally, and spiritually, allowing us to spend more time with the Lord and be more effective in our work.

Just as Bezalel and Oholiab were called to craftsmanship, God has given each of us unique gifts and all kinds of skills. We must recognize our divine calling and seek to apply what God has called us to do, and we must learn how we can use our acumens, talents, resources, and margin to glorify Him. Whatever our job or passion, we do it wholeheartedly and strive for excellence. We pursue great work in our fields, knowing God values reasonable and skillful effort. But we must also make time for rest and worship as we prioritize Sabbath moments to reconnect with Jesus and refresh our souls.

This week in the life teaches us that work and worship are interconnected. We are called to use our God-given abilities to build, create, and serve, but we must also honor the rhythm of rest that God established. By doing so, we live out our divine purpose with diligence and dependence on the Father. He gives us all kinds of skills, even the ability and capacity to be with and glorify Him.