Exodus-35
Crafting God's Sanctuary: A Devotional Study on Exodus 35
Introduction
The book of Exodus narrates the story of the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the promised land. Exodus 35 depicts a pivotal moment in their wilderness wanderings when the people took a significant step in their faith. This chapter beckons us to reflect on our role in the building of God's spiritual sanctuary in our hearts and lives.
Section 1: The Call to Consecration (Exodus 35:1-6)
Devotional Thought: The chapter begins with Moses declaring God's call to consecration. The people are called to set apart their best resources for the building of the sanctuary. This call to consecration underscores God's sovereignty and faithfulness in our lives. Let's reflect on how we've chosen to set apart our resources, talents, time, and resources for His purposes.
Reflection Questions:
- How do you set apart your best resources for God's purposes?
- In what ways can you re-evaluate your time, talents, and resources for God's work?
Section 2: Voluntary Contributions (Exodus 35:7-9)
Devotional Thought: The people responded to the call for consecration with enthusiastic voluntary contributions. They contributed their best resources of gold, silver, bronze, and blue, purple, and scarlet fabrics. The people's voluntary contributions reflect their willingness and commitment to God's work. Let's consider how we can offer our best to God.
Reflection Questions:
- What can you give to God out of your best resources?
- In what areas of your life can you be more intentional about offering your best to God?
Section 3: Divinely Gifted Artisans (Exodus 35:30-33)
Devotional Thought: The chapter highlights the critical role of divinely gifted artisans in building the sanctuary. These gifted individuals volunteered their time, talents, and resources for God's work. The chapter sheds light on the importance of recognizing our divine-giftedness and using it to serve God's purposes. Let's reflect on how we can utilize our divine gifts for God's work.
Reflection Questions:
- What divine gifts has God bestowed upon you?
- How can you use your divine gifts to serve God's purposes?
Section 4: The Glory of the Lord Fill the Tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38)
Devotional Thought: The concluding verses of this passage describe the glory of the Lord filling the tabernacle. This realization becomes a highlight of the sanctuary's purpose in the wilderness and exemplifies the importance of building God's spiritual sanctuary in our hearts and lives. Let's strive to cultivate an environment in our hearts and lives that accommodates the presence of God.
Reflection Questions:
- How can we create an environment in our hearts and lives that welcomes the presence of God?
- How can we share the beauty of a sanctuary filled with God's presence with others?
Conclusion:
As we conclude our devotional journey through Exodus 35, let's recognize our role in building the spiritual sanctuary in our hearts and lives. May we bring our consecration, our voluntary contributions, and our divine gifts towards building this spiritual sanctuary in our hearts and lives, allowing God's presence to be fully realized.