November 27, 2009 (Exodus 33-40)

Some of my favorite verses were in today's reading. Here's the first:

Exodus 34:14 You must worship no other gods, for the Lord, whose very name is Jealous, is a God who is jealous about his relationship with you.

The Bible I was reading said it this way: You must worship no other gods, but only The Lord, for He is a God who is passionate about His relationship with you.

I love the thought that God is passionate about His relationship with me. The Bible also says that He is the same; yesterday, today and forever. That is why I love this next verse as well:

Exodus 33:15 And the Lord replied to Moses, "I will indeed do what you have asked, for you have found favor with me, and you are my friend." Another awesome thought, that we can be friends with God.

Earlier in Exodus 33 Moses tells God, "If you don't go with us personally, don't let us move a step". Does God hear that from us, or do we go our merry way without consulting Him and asking for His guidance.

Then one final thought. As I was reading about God's plans for the tabernacle and all the intricate designs and construction for it, these verses reminded me that our gifts and abilities come from God, and His intent is that we use them for Him.

^{Exodus 35:31}The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts. ³² He is a master craftsman, expert in working with gold, silver, and bronze. ³³ He is skilled in engraving and mounting gemstones and in carving wood. He is a master at every craft. ³⁴ And the Lord has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach their skills to others. ³⁵ The Lord has given them special skills as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet thread on fine linen cloth, and weavers. They excel as craftsmen and as designers. Exodus 36:1 “The Lord has gifted Bezalel, Oholiab, and the other skilled craftsmen with wisdom and ability to perform any task involved in building the sanctuary. Let them construct and furnish the Tabernacle, just as the Lord has commanded.”