Exodus-28
Dressed for His Service: A Devotional Study on Exodus 28
Introduction
Exodus 28 contains instructions for the construction of the sacred garments worn by the high priest. Through the intricate details of these garments, we discover profound insights into the nature of God's service and the heart of the high priest. As we dive into this chapter, let's delve deeper into the spiritual truths that this passage reveals.
Section 1: The Holy Garments (Exodus 28:1-14)
Devotional Thought: God instructs Moses to have Aaron's sons consecrated, and then He outlines the intricate details of the garments for the high priest. God's exacting instructions for these garments reflect His holiness and desire for a consecrated priesthood. Today, consider how God's instructions challenge us to seek holiness and consecration in our service to Him.
Reflection Questions:
- How do God's instructions for the holy garments challenge us to strive for holiness and consecration in our service to Him?
- What steps can we take to align ourselves with God's instructions for holiness?
Section 2: The Ephod (Exodus 28:6-14)
Devotional Thought: The ephod is a decorated piece of linen worn by the high priest. The breastpiece, containing twelve precious stones and engraved with the names of the twelve tribes, was a reminder of God's faithfulness to the people. This decorative piece reflects the beauty and richness of God's faithfulness. Today, consider how you can appreciate the beauty of God's faithfulness in your life.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you appreciate the beauty and richness of God's faithfulness in your life?
- In what ways can you draw strength from God's faithfulness, as represented by the breastpiece?
Section 3: The Robe (Exodus 28:31-35)
Devotional Thought: The robe, made of blue, is a symbol of God's majesty. As the high priest entered the holy place, the robe would spread over his body, and the priests would pray for him. Today, consider how you can pray for those charged with leading us spiritually.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you pray for spiritual leaders in your community?
- In what ways can we support the leadings of spiritual leaders through our prayers?
Section 4: The Turban (Exodus 28:36-43)
Devotional Thought: The turban, adorned with a golden plate reading, "HOLY TO THE LORD," was a reminder of the holiness of God's service. This dramatic headpiece underscores the importance of proper attire in carrying out God's business. Today, consider how you can honor God's business by presenting yourself appropriately.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you honor God's business by presenting yourself appropriately?
- In what ways can you respect the holy nature of worship through your attire?
Section 5: Girdle and Bells (Exodus 28:40)
Devotional Thought: The girdle, or belt, held the high priest's clothes in place during service. The golden bells allowed the people to hear the priest moving through the tabernacle. These practical pieces underscore the importance of preparation and attentiveness in carrying out God's service. Today, consider how you can prepare yourself and remain attentive during God's service.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you prepare yourself for God's service and remain attentive throughout?
- In what ways can you ensure that you are fully present during worship services?
Conclusion:
As we conclude this study on the holy garments, we see how each piece brought the high priest continually back to the holiness of God's service. May we honor the holy nature of God's service by following the example set by the high priest's garments: seeking holiness, preparing ourselves, and remaining attentive. As we honor God's business in these ways, we step into God's service with reverence and honor for the pure God we serve.