Discover the significance of God’s presence among His people through the Tabernacle, exploring how His desire to dwell with us shapes our faith and everyday lives.
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The focus today centers on the significance of God’s presence, particularly through the symbol of the Tabernacle. In Exodus 25:8-9, God commands, “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle and of all its furniture, so you shall make it.”
This command illustrates God’s deep desire to be with His people, creating a space where His holiness and love intersect with human existence. The Tabernacle serves not only as a physical structure but also as a tangible representation of God’s commitment to intimacy with humanity.
In Exodus 40:34-38, we witness the culmination of this relationship when God’s glory fills the Tabernacle. The sight of a cloud enveloping the tent signals His presence, guiding the Israelites through their journey. This imagery reinforces the idea that God is not distant or detached; He actively seeks to dwell among us.
Understanding this connection invites us to reflect on our spiritual journey, recognizing how God’s presence shapes our daily lives and faith. The realization that God desires a relationship with us can inspire a deeper commitment to our spiritual practices and an awareness of His guiding hand in our circumstances.
Recognizing God’s Desire
God’s desire to dwell among His people is a profound theme that resonates throughout Scripture, beginning with the command in Exodus 25:8-9: “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.” This directive establishes the Tabernacle as a sacred space, designed specifically for God to be present among the Israelites.
The significance of this dwelling goes beyond mere proximity; it highlights God’s longing for a relationship characterized by intimacy, guidance, and connection. This desire reflects the very heart of God, who seeks to be actively involved in the lives of His people, offering both physical and spiritual sustenance.
This theme continues in the New Testament, where John 1:14 states, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Here, the arrival of Jesus represents the ultimate fulfillment of God’s desire to dwell among humanity. The incarnation signifies that God is not just an abstract idea or distant deity but rather someone who enters into our world, sharing in our experiences and struggles.
Through Jesus, the divine presence becomes accessible to all, inviting every person into a relationship marked by love, forgiveness, and transformation.
In our daily lives, recognizing God’s desire to dwell with us can profoundly impact how we approach our challenges and relationships. When faced with difficulties, remembering that God is present can bring comfort and strength. Consider how this awareness can shape your interactions with others, encouraging you to extend grace and compassion, reflecting the very love that God shows us. By cultivating an understanding of His constant presence, we can nurture a faith that actively engages with God’s promises and purpose for our lives.
Blueprint for the Tabernacle
The blueprint for the Tabernacle is a critical element in understanding God’s desire for a close relationship with His people. In Exodus 25:8-9, God instructs Moses to construct a sanctuary that serves as a tangible sign of His presence.
This command illustrates the importance of creating a designated space for worship and communion. The Tabernacle becomes a physical representation of God’s longing to meet His people, providing a sacred area where they can experience His holiness, seek forgiveness, and receive guidance.
The intricate design of the Tabernacle underscores the profound ways in which it serves as a meeting place between the divine and humanity. It is divided into specific areas, such as the Outer Court, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place, each with distinct purposes.
The sacrifices offered at the altar, the lighting of the lampstand, and the presence of the Ark of the Covenant all symbolize our need for atonement, enlightenment, and connection with God. Just as the Tabernacle provided a structure for the Israelites to encounter God, our own lives require intentional spaces and practices for spiritual engagement.
Consider how you might create a “tabernacle” in your own life. This could be a quiet corner in your home for prayer, a dedicated time for meditation, or even a weekly gathering with friends for Bible study. These intentional spaces allow for moments of reflection, worship, and communion with God, echoing the purpose of the Tabernacle. By prioritizing such places and times, you foster an environment where God’s presence can be felt, leading to spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of His love and guidance.
Incarnation of Christ
The incarnation of Christ marks a transformative moment in the narrative of God’s relationship with humanity. As stated in John 1:14, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” This profound declaration signifies that Jesus is not just a messenger of God’s presence but the embodiment of it.
Through His life, Jesus fulfills the promise of the Tabernacle, where God sought to be intimately involved with His people. By taking on human form, He bridges the gap between the divine and humanity, demonstrating that God desires to be deeply connected to our everyday lives.
Jesus’ ministry exemplifies this desire in action. Throughout His time on Earth, He walked among the people, healing the sick, comforting the brokenhearted, and engaging with those marginalized by society. In every encounter, He illustrates God’s longing to bring hope and restoration.
For instance, when He meets the woman at the well, He not only offers her physical water but also speaks to her deeper spiritual thirst, revealing His understanding of her struggles and desires. This interaction highlights how God sees us, knows our needs, and seeks to address them through personal engagement.
Incorporating this understanding into our lives encourages us to recognize God’s presence in our daily routines. Whether in moments of joy or times of sorrow, remembering that Jesus is with us offers profound comfort. Consider how you can invite His presence into mundane tasks, transforming them into opportunities for connection.
Whether you’re cooking a meal, commuting to work, or facing a difficult challenge, acknowledging Jesus’ companionship can turn ordinary moments into extraordinary encounters with God. By doing so, you cultivate a faith that recognizes His unwavering desire to walk with you every step of the way.
Manifestation of God’s Presence
The manifestation of God’s presence is a pivotal aspect of His relationship with humanity, profoundly illustrated in Exodus 40:34-35 and Acts 2:1-4. In Exodus, when Moses completes the Tabernacle, “the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.”
This moment signifies the divine approval and presence of God among His people, creating a sacred atmosphere where worship and communion can occur. The cloud serves as a visible sign of God’s holiness, offering both guidance and assurance as the Israelites journey through the wilderness. This dramatic display emphasizes that God is not only present but actively involved in the lives of His people, providing direction and protection.
Fast forward to the New Testament, Acts 2:1-4 reveals another significant manifestation of God’s presence during Pentecost. As the disciples gather, “suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.” This powerful event marks the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, transforming the disciples and empowering them to spread the Gospel.
The presence of God, now residing within believers, signifies a new era of intimacy and connection. Just as the cloud filled the Tabernacle, the Holy Spirit fills the hearts of those who believe, ensuring that God’s presence is not limited to a physical space but is available to everyone.
Reflecting on these manifestations can shape how we perceive God in our lives today. In moments of uncertainty or challenge, the assurance of God’s presence can be a source of strength. Think about how God’s glory filled the Tabernacle and how the Holy Spirit empowered the early church.
Both examples serve as reminders that God actively seeks to make His presence known in ways that resonate with our hearts. By remaining open to these manifestations, whether through prayer, worship, or community, we create space for God to reveal Himself, bringing comfort, clarity, and empowerment as we navigate our spiritual journeys.
Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle
The glory of the Lord filling the Tabernacle, as described in Exodus 40:34-35, signifies a powerful moment in the relationship between God and His people. When “the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle,” it not only indicates divine approval but also establishes the sacredness of God’s dwelling among them.
This moment is a vivid illustration of how God desires to be intimately present in the lives of His people, affirming His commitment to guide, protect, and empower them. The cloud serves as a reminder that God’s presence is holy and transformative, inviting reverence and awe.
Experiencing the glory of God can manifest in many ways within our own lives, particularly during moments of worship or community gatherings. Think back to times when the atmosphere felt charged with a palpable sense of God’s presence.
Perhaps it was during a church service where heartfelt worship led to a profound sense of unity, or at a retreat where sharing personal testimonies fostered an environment of vulnerability and grace. These experiences reinforce the significance of collective faith, showing how God moves powerfully when believers come together.
Such moments remind us that we are not alone in our spiritual journeys. The shared experiences of worship create a space for individuals to encounter God in ways that may not be possible alone. This collective faith fosters encouragement, deepens connections, and strengthens our understanding of God’s active presence among us. By nurturing these communal experiences, we can cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s glory and invite His transformative power into our lives, enhancing our individual and collective walk of faith.
Holy Spirit at Pentecost
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, as captured in Acts 2:1-4, represents a pivotal moment in the unfolding of God’s presence among His people. In this passage, the disciples experience a dramatic transformation when “a sound like a mighty rushing wind” fills the house, and they are filled with the Holy Spirit, enabling them to speak in various tongues.
This event marks a new era in which God’s presence is no longer confined to a physical structure like the Tabernacle but resides within each believer. The Holy Spirit empowers individuals, guiding and equipping them to fulfill their divine purpose in the world.
Transformative encounters with the Holy Spirit illustrate the active presence of God in our lives today. Many people have stories of moments when they felt a profound shift, often characterized by a deep sense of peace, clarity, or empowerment.
For instance, someone may recount a time during prayer when they experienced an overwhelming sense of comfort in the face of grief, as if the Holy Spirit was affirming their hope and providing strength. Others might share how they felt compelled to serve in their community after receiving a clear prompting from the Spirit, leading to life-changing impacts both for themselves and those they served.
These personal testimonies highlight how the Holy Spirit continues to work within us, offering guidance, encouragement, and transformation. Such experiences remind us that God is not distant but intimately involved in our lives, inviting us to lean into His presence. By recognizing and sharing these encounters, we cultivate an atmosphere of openness and expectation, fostering a community where the active presence of God can be felt and celebrated. This awareness helps us to engage with God more deeply, acknowledging His ongoing work in our lives and the lives of those around us.
Living in the Light of God’s Presence
Living in the light of God’s presence is a transformative aspect of the Christian journey, as seen in Psalm 139:7-10 and Hebrews 13:5-6. The psalmist expresses a profound understanding of God’s omnipresence, asking, “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?”
This passage highlights that there is no place we can go to escape God; His presence surrounds us, enveloping us in love and guidance. Recognizing this truth invites us to live with an awareness that God is always near, ready to support us in every circumstance.
Hebrews 13:5-6 reinforces this concept with the assurance, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” This promise speaks to God’s unwavering commitment to His people, providing a foundation of security and confidence in our daily lives. Understanding that we are never alone encourages us to face challenges with courage, knowing God is right by our side. When we internalize this promise, it transforms how we approach life’s difficulties, fostering resilience and hope even in the most trying times.
Consider the impact of living in the light of God’s presence on your day-to-day interactions. How would your perspective shift if you actively acknowledged His presence in your work, relationships, and personal struggles? For example, approaching a challenging conversation with the awareness of God’s nearness can infuse it with grace and wisdom, fostering a spirit of understanding.
By living in this light, we cultivate a deeper relationship with God, allowing His presence to guide our thoughts, actions, and decisions. Embracing the reality of God’s constant companionship not only enriches our faith but also empowers us to share His love and light with those around us.
Omnipresence of God
The omnipresence of God, as articulated in Psalm 139, serves as a profound reminder that we cannot escape His presence; He is with us in every circumstance. The psalmist beautifully illustrates this truth, declaring, “If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there.”
This knowledge brings immense comfort and assurance, particularly during times of trouble. Understanding that God is always near can help alleviate feelings of isolation or despair, assuring us that we are never truly alone in our struggles.
Personal experiences often highlight this comforting truth. Many individuals can recall moments when they felt a palpable sense of God’s presence in the midst of trials. For example, someone facing a health crisis might share how they sensed God’s peace enveloping them in a hospital room, calming their fears and providing strength.
Similarly, during a period of grief, one may have experienced an unexpected sense of comfort through the kindness of friends or a reassuring thought that reminded them of God’s faithfulness. These moments reinforce the understanding that God never abandons us; He walks alongside us, offering support and hope.
Reflecting on such experiences encourages us to cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence in our lives. When we recognize that He is with us in both joyful and challenging times, it can change our approach to difficulties. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, we can lean into His support, drawing strength from the knowledge that we are held by His love. This awareness fosters resilience and deepens our relationship with God, enabling us to face life’s challenges with faith and confidence, assured that His presence is a constant source of comfort and guidance.
Assurance of God’s Faithfulness
The assurance of God’s faithfulness is powerfully articulated in Hebrews 13:5-6, where we are reminded of His promise: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” This unwavering commitment encourages us to live boldly and fearlessly, knowing that God is always present in our lives. This promise provides a foundation upon which we can build our faith, reassuring us that we are never alone in our endeavors, whether personal, professional, or spiritual.
Many inspiring examples illustrate how individuals have stepped out in faith, empowered by their awareness of God’s constant presence and support. Consider a missionary who, despite the uncertainties of moving to a foreign land, embraces the call to share the Gospel.
Driven by a deep trust in God’s promise, they navigate the challenges of language barriers, cultural differences, and potential dangers. Their faith is anchored in the belief that God goes before them, providing protection and guidance, transforming their fears into bold actions that impact countless lives.
Another example can be found in the story of someone pursuing a significant career change. Faced with doubt and insecurity, they choose to trust in God’s presence and direction, believing that He has equipped them for this new journey. By stepping away from the familiar and taking risks, they often discover new opportunities and passions they never imagined possible. Their journey becomes a testament to how faith in God’s faithfulness can lead to remarkable transformations and blessings.
These stories serve as powerful reminders that when we lean into the assurance of God’s presence, we can tackle challenges with courage and confidence. The awareness of His support allows us to take bold steps, knowing we are upheld by His faithfulness. By sharing such testimonies, we inspire one another to recognize God’s active role in our lives, encouraging a community where faith flourishes and God’s presence is acknowledged in every step we take.
Invitation for Reflection
As we contemplate God’s presence, it’s vital to consider where you are actively seeking Him in your life. Reflect on areas where you may feel distant from Him—whether due to personal struggles, busyness, or life transitions.
Acknowledging these feelings is the first step toward inviting God back into those spaces. Recognize that His desire to dwell among you is not contingent on perfection; rather, it is an invitation to intimacy and connection. By reflecting on His presence, you open the door for transformation, allowing Him to bring healing, comfort, and clarity to your circumstances.
Think about specific moments when you sensed God’s nearness or felt His guidance. What changes occurred in those times? Understanding His constant desire to be with you can reignite hope and deepen your faith, reassuring you that you are never alone. Let this reflection lead you to a renewed commitment to actively seek Him, knowing that He is always eager to engage in your life.
Call for Action
I challenge you to create intentional spaces for encountering God this week. Consider dedicating time for prayer, setting aside moments for worship, or finding ways to serve others in your community. Each of these actions can foster a deeper connection with God’s presence.
For instance, reach out to someone in need, whether it’s a friend facing difficulties or a neighbor who could use support. By embodying God’s presence through acts of kindness and love, you reflect His heart to those around you.
This week, strive to be mindful of God’s presence in every interaction and decision. Whether you’re at work, home, or out in the community, let the awareness of His nearness guide your actions. As you intentionally seek Him, you may discover new depths of His love and a renewed sense of purpose in your everyday life. Embrace this opportunity to grow in faith and become a vessel of His presence, extending His grace and care to those you encounter.
Closing Thoughts…
In closing, let us remember that God desires to dwell among us—not just in the past with the Israelites through the Tabernacle, but here and now in our lives today. We explored the significance of God’s presence, highlighted by the glory of the Tabernacle and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
Understanding His omnipresence assures us that we cannot escape His love and guidance, providing comfort during our struggles. As we reflect on our experiences, we recognize that moments of divine connection can transform our lives and deepen our faith. The assurance of God’s faithfulness invites us to step out boldly, knowing He is always with us, encouraging us to create intentional spaces for encountering Him.
Let us embrace the reality of His presence, allowing it to shape how we live and interact with others, embodying His love and care in our daily lives. As we leave today, may we carry this awareness forward, continually seeking His guidance and sharing His light with those around us.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unwavering presence in our lives. Your promise to never leave us nor forsake us brings comfort and strength, reminding us that we are never alone. Help us to cultivate a deeper awareness of You among us and within us, opening our hearts to recognize the many ways You reveal Yourself daily. As we navigate our challenges, may we feel Your guidance and love surrounding us.
Empower us to share Your love with others, reflecting Your grace and kindness in our interactions. Help us to be vessels of Your presence, bringing hope and light into a world that desperately needs it. Amen.
Benediction
As we conclude, may you walk in the assurance of God’s presence, knowing that He dwells among you. Carry this truth in your heart as you go about your daily life, allowing it to infuse you with peace and confidence. Remember, God is not just a distant figure but an ever-present companion who guides and supports you. Go forth in peace, and as you move into your week, share His light with the world.
Let your actions and words reflect His love, inspiring those around you and creating a ripple effect of grace. May your encounters be filled with purpose, and may you continue to seek His presence in all you do.
Invitation to Accept Christ as Your Savior
Friends, as we’ve explored today the profound truth of spiritual rebirth and transformation in Christ, I want to invite you to consider where you stand in relation to God. Perhaps you’ve never made a decision to follow Jesus or maybe you’ve strayed from your faith. Today, I encourage you to open your heart to Him. If you desire to experience the forgiveness of sins and the new life that Jesus offers, I invite you to pray with me. Simply acknowledge your need for Him, believe in His death and resurrection for your salvation, and invite Him to be your Lord and Savior.
Let Us Pray A Sinners Prayer
Heavenly Father, I come before You acknowledging my need for Your forgiveness and grace. I recognize that I am a sinner in need of salvation. I believe that Jesus Christ, Your Son, died on the cross for my sins and rose again from the dead. I repent of my sins and turn away from my old way of life.
Lord Jesus, I invite You into my heart and life to be my Lord and Savior. I trust in Your finished work on the cross and Your promise of eternal life. Wash away my sins with Your precious blood and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. May Your love and truth guide me from this day forward.
Thank You, Lord, for hearing my prayer and for the gift of salvation. I surrender my life to You and ask for Your strength to live according to Your will. Help me to grow in faith and to follow You faithfully all the days of my life.
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
If you have prayed this prayer sincerely, I encourage you to seek out a community of believers who can support you in your new journey of faith. God bless you abundantly as you walk with Him.
Thanksgiving to Our Followers
Let us not be remiss in graciously thanking all of our Church Junction Foundation supporters with their prayers, evangelism efforts of faith in spreading the good news about ChurchJunction.com, providing personal testimonials of trust and encouragement, and especially the hard earned financial support we have received. Yes, it is the Body of Christ who makes all of this possible. Amen. God Bless you…
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Dear Pastor David,
Thank you for this inspiring reflection on God’s deep desire to dwell among His people. You’ve beautifully captured the significance of the Tabernacle, and it’s clear how much this theme is woven throughout Scripture, revealing God’s longing for intimacy with His creation.
As you highlighted, Exodus 25:8-9 states: “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle and of all its furniture, so you shall make it.” This verse speaks to God’s intentionality in creating a space where His presence could be physically experienced. The Tabernacle wasn’t just a structure—it was a sign of God’s active involvement in the lives of His people. His desire to be near us is as profound today as it was for the Israelites in the wilderness.
To expand on this, I would like to offer Revelation 21:3: “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.’” This passage points us to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s desire to dwell with His people, culminating in the New Jerusalem. Just as the Tabernacle in Exodus was a temporary symbol of God’s presence, so too is the promise in Revelation a foretaste of the eternal reality where God’s presence will be fully realized and experienced without end.
Your connection between the Tabernacle and the incarnation of Christ in John 1:14—“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us”—is incredibly powerful. Jesus is the embodiment of God’s presence among us, fulfilling the promises of the Old Testament. His dwelling with us, in the flesh, represents the most intimate and personal expression of God’s desire to be close to us, sharing in our experiences, joys, and struggles. This connection between the Tabernacle and Christ emphasizes that God desires not just a distant or abstract relationship, but one that is deeply personal and active.
As we reflect on this profound truth, I believe it invites us to reexamine our own lives. God’s presence is not confined to a building or a structure, but is a living, active force in our lives. How do we make room for His presence in our day-to-day decisions? How can we create a “sanctuary” in our hearts and lives that welcomes God’s intimacy and guidance? I’d love to hear how others are experiencing God’s presence in their lives, especially in practical, everyday ways.
Blessings,
Pastor Rocky
Thank you for sharing such a profound exploration of the Tabernacle and its significance in Scripture. As you beautifully highlight, “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them” (Exodus 25:8), we see God’s deep desire to be with His people, to create a sacred space where His presence could dwell among them. This passage illustrates not just a physical location, but a symbol of God’s commitment to a personal and intimate relationship with His people. It’s a powerful reminder that God is not distant, but actively desires to be with us, guiding and sustaining us.
I would like to offer another verse that complements this theme of God’s desire to dwell with us. John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” This verse shows the ultimate fulfillment of God’s desire to be with us through the incarnation of Jesus. God not only dwelt in the Tabernacle but came to live among us in human form, revealing His glory and offering us the fullest expression of His love and grace.
Recognizing God’s desire to dwell with us in both the Tabernacle and through Christ invites us into a deeper relationship with Him. Just as the Tabernacle provided a space for the Israelites to encounter God’s holiness, we are called to create intentional spaces in our own lives for worship, prayer, and reflection. In doing so, we open ourselves to His presence and invite His transformative power to work in us. Whether through daily devotionals, quiet prayer times, or community worship, these “tabernacles” in our lives help us to grow spiritually and draw nearer to God.
As we think about how God desires to dwell with us, it’s helpful to reflect on how we can intentionally create moments to experience His presence in our everyday lives. How do you encourage your congregation to establish these sacred spaces and cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence in their daily routines?
God be with you,
Pastor Ruben
Greetings Pastor Larry,
Thank you for your thought-provoking post on the significance of God’s presence through the Tabernacle. You’ve beautifully illustrated the deep desire of God to dwell among His people, beginning with Exodus 25:8-9, “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle and of all its furniture, so you shall make it.” This command is a powerful testament to God’s longing for intimate fellowship with His people, creating a space for His holiness to meet human existence.
An additional verse that complements this theme is John 1:14, which states, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” This verse marks the fulfillment of God’s desire to be with His people in the most tangible way possible—through the incarnation of Jesus. It shows that God’s presence, which once filled the Tabernacle, is now fully realized in Jesus, who lived among us, shared in our experiences, and demonstrated God’s love in action.
Understanding the profound significance of God’s presence in the Tabernacle calls us to reflect on how His presence shapes our everyday lives. Just as the cloud of God’s glory led the Israelites through their journey, His presence continues to guide us today. As we grow in our relationship with Him, we are called to be intentional about recognizing and seeking His presence in our daily walk, whether through prayer, Scripture, or moments of stillness before Him.
In light of your reflection, “How does God’s desire to dwell among us influence your personal faith and daily practices?” I’d love to hear how others are experiencing God’s presence in their lives. What practical steps are you taking to invite His presence more fully into your day-to-day routines?
God be with you,
Pastor Sam
Hello Pastor Larry,
Thank you for your insightful reflection on the significance of God’s presence among His people. You highlighted Exodus 25:8-9 — “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst. Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle, and all its furniture, so you shall make it.” This passage clearly illustrates God’s profound desire to be with His people, not just in spirit but in a very tangible, physical way. The Tabernacle was not merely a place, but a representation of God’s willingness to draw near to us.
As an alternative, I’d like to share John 1:14 — “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” This verse speaks to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s desire to dwell among us, not in a physical structure, but in the person of Jesus Christ. Just as God’s presence filled the Tabernacle, in Jesus, He came to live among us in a deeply personal and transformative way.
In practical terms, understanding that God desires to be with us can radically change how we view our daily lives. Just as God’s presence guided the Israelites through their journey, His presence can guide us through our own life’s challenges. We can find peace and assurance in knowing that He is not distant, but actively involved in our lives, offering His guidance and comfort. This awareness can inspire us to make space for God in our lives through prayer, worship, and reflection on His Word.
You mentioned the connection between God’s presence and our spiritual journey. I’d love to ask the community: How have you experienced God’s presence in your life, and how has it shaped the way you live each day?
God be with you,
Pastor Steve
Greetings Pastor Steve,
Thank you for your thoughtful reply and for expanding on the profound truth of God’s desire to dwell among us. You’ve wonderfully highlighted Exodus 25:8-9, “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst. Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle, and all its furniture, so you shall make it,” emphasizing the tangible and intentional nature of God’s presence with His people. The Tabernacle serves as a powerful symbol of God’s willingness to be present with us in a deeply relational way.
I would like to offer another verse that reinforces this theme: John 1:14, which says, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” This verse demonstrates the ultimate fulfillment of God’s desire to dwell among His people—through Jesus Christ. The incarnation shows us that God’s presence, once manifested in the Tabernacle, is now fully realized in the person of Christ, who walks with us, teaches us, and shares in our human experience.
In practical terms, the reality that God desires to dwell with us can transform our daily lives. Just as His presence guided the Israelites, we can take comfort in knowing that He is actively involved in every part of our lives. This awareness encourages us to create space for His presence in our routines—whether through prayer, worship, or moments of reflection. Recognizing His closeness inspires us to rely on His guidance and trust that He is with us in every circumstance.
In response to your question, “How have you experienced God’s presence in your life, and how has it shaped the way you live each day?” I personally find His presence most evident in moments of quiet prayer and in reading His Word. These times deepen my awareness of His guiding hand and empower me to live with purpose and peace. How have others experienced God’s presence, and how does it shape your daily walk with Him?
God be with you,
Pastor Sam
Hello Pastor Larry,
Thank you for your insightful post on the significance of God’s presence, especially through the symbol of the Tabernacle. As you pointed out, in Exodus 25:8-9, God commands the building of a sanctuary for a very personal reason: “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle and of all its furniture, so you shall make it.” This command reveals God’s deep desire to be with His people, to dwell among them, and to have His holiness intersect with human lives. It’s a profound reminder that God is not far off but close to us, desiring intimacy and relationship.
Another verse that complements this is “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14) This passage echoes the same truth we see in the Tabernacle. Jesus, the Word made flesh, came to dwell among us, bringing the presence of God to humanity in a new and personal way. Just as God’s glory filled the Tabernacle in Exodus 40:34-38, so too does God’s glory fill the world through Jesus Christ, reminding us that His presence continues to guide and shape our lives.
Understanding this connection between the Tabernacle and God’s desire for a relationship with His people helps us recognize that God’s presence is not just a historical reality but a present one. He is still active, still guiding us, and still dwelling among His people. As we reflect on the way the Israelites were led by God’s presence through the cloud, we are invited to trust that He is still leading us today, through His Spirit. Our faith, our daily decisions, and even our struggles are part of this ongoing relationship with God, and He desires to be present in every moment.
To answer the question of how this understanding shapes our lives, “How does recognizing God’s active presence with us change the way we approach our daily lives?” One way to embrace this is through cultivating a mindset of awareness—recognizing that God’s presence is not limited to church services but is with us in our homes, workplaces, and communities. We can encourage one another to acknowledge God in all aspects of our lives, praying for His guidance and reflecting on His constant presence with us.
How have you personally experienced God’s presence guiding you in your daily walk?
God be with you,
Pastor Tom
Hello Pastor Tom,
Thank you for your thoughtful response and for building upon the discussion of God’s desire to dwell with His people. You beautifully expanded on Exodus 25:8-9 — “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle and of all its furniture, so you shall make it.” Your reflection on God’s profound desire for intimacy and relationship is so powerful, emphasizing how He is near to us, not distant, and longs to be involved in our lives.
As an alternative, I’d like to share Revelation 21:3 — “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.” This passage affirms the ultimate fulfillment of God’s desire to dwell with us. It points toward the future, where God’s presence will be fully realized, yet we experience His presence now in the person of Jesus Christ and through His Holy Spirit.
In practical terms, recognizing God’s active presence with us daily changes the way we approach every aspect of our lives. It allows us to walk with a deeper sense of peace and assurance, knowing that He is guiding us every step of the way. Whether in times of joy or challenge, we can trust that He is near, actively working in and through us. This awareness also encourages us to invite God into our daily activities, seeking His wisdom and guidance in all things, big or small.
You asked about personal experiences of God’s guidance. For me, I’ve often felt His presence most acutely in moments of uncertainty. When making difficult decisions, I’ve found peace in taking time to pray and reflect on His Word, trusting that He is guiding my steps. I’d love to hear from the community: How have you personally experienced God’s presence guiding you in your daily walk?
God be with you,
Pastor Steve