Read Exodus 38 – 40
Then a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. Exodus 40:34 KJV
What a picture of grace we have in the concluding verses of Exodus. Having descended from heaven to the top of Mount Sinai, God now descended from the top of Mount Sinai into the Tabernacle to dwell between the cherubim’s above the mercy seat (25:22), the place of propitiation (satisfaction), where the blood of the lamb of atonement was sprinkled (Leviticus 16:15). The glory of God so filled the Tabernacle that not even Moses, who had been accustomed to speaking with God face to face (33:11), could enter. In light of the Golden Calf incident, the broken Covenant, God’s intention to destroy the nation, and the possibility of His not remaining with them (32-33), it was God’s grace that brought Him into their midst to lead them through the wilderness. Grace is unmerited favor when the opposite is deserved. Certainly, Israel did not deserve God’s presence.
Lord, I too am a recipient of your grace. I don’t deserve it, but according to Your Word, You have sanctified me, indwelt me (1 Corinthians 6:19), and direct me. What glorious grace! In light of such privilege and grace, help me live as one sanctified, indwelt, and directed by You.
