Starting in Exodus 25, the rest of Exodus (about 1/3 of the entire book) is primarily devoted to instructions on how to construct the Tabernacle and the process of actually building it. What is going on here? What is God doing having the Israelites make a Tabernacle, a dwelling place? He doesn’t need a place to dwell. In a sense, the entire universe is His dwelling place.
The tabernacle was a “space.” It was a meeting space, a space where the Israelites could worship Him. It was also a space that they could look at and be reminded that He was in their midst.
Does this mean that we are to build more and larger buildings in which to gather to worship Him? No, it means that God wants us to make space and time for Him in every area of our lives. He wants to dwell in us through Messiah Yeshua, via His Holy Spirit, and be included in every area of our lives.
However, because of what is called “free will,” He won’t force us to give Him space in our lives. We must invite Him in. It is the way He made us. But, this isn’t just about becoming “born again”—asking Yeshua to be your Savior. That is the first step but we can do that and still not make space for Him in our daily lives. He wants a relationship, a deep, personal, intimate relationship with you.
How do you develop that relationship? How do you give God space? The same way you developed your relationship with your spouse or best friend—by giving them space in your life. You spent time with them and learned what they were like. You also talked with them about your hopes, plans, and even problems.
So, you give God space by spending time with Him. You learn about Him by reading and studying, yes I said studying, His Word, the Bible. Although He already knows all about you, you still spend time telling Him about your concerns, struggles, interests, needs, and, yes, even your wants. The more space you give Him, the more time you spend with Him, the more intimate the two of you will be, and the better your life will be. I can’t promise that He will make everything “rosy.” I can promise that He will be at your side as He takes you through the highs and lows of life.
Until next time…”May the LORD bless and protect you…May He give you Shalom.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
Bill
WJB's Turn 