Exploring Exodus: The Transformative Beauty of Obedience

Beauty.

Hi friends! While reading through Exodus, I was struck by the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle—the place where God would dwell among His people in the Old Testament. (See Exodus 25–31 for the initial instructions, and Exodus 35–40 for the actual construction.) In Leviticus, there are also specific instructions for various offerings: grain, sin, and fellowship (Leviticus 1–7).

The Tabernacle represented God’s very presence with His people. It was holy. Every detail was intentional—the dimensions, the colors, the materials, and even the specific individuals chosen to build it, whom God had filled with His Spirit, skill, and wisdom (Exodus 31:1–11). There were clear boundaries about how and when people could enter His presence.

Reading all of this got me thinking:

1. Wow—God is incredibly creative. He gave them exact measurements and colors, down to the cubit.

2. God designed things to be beautiful and filled with purpose.

3. God is specific and is HOLY—and that is serious. Obedience was a matter of life and death (we see this later with Aaron’s sons in Leviticus 10:1–2).

Even though worship in the New Testament looks different, we serve the same God—steadfast, majestic, beautiful, and creative. Studying the Tabernacle helps us understand what it means to offer ourselves to God. And even in all the strict instructions of Leviticus, we see God’s grace. He made provisions for those who couldn’t afford the best sacrifices (Leviticus 5:7, 11), showing that His desire wasn’t about perfection, but presence and intent.

All of this reminded me—it was never just about the sacrifices. It was about God's heart to be with His people—first in the Tabernacle, then to free them from sin. So today, consider the heart and character of God: holy yet gracious, exacting yet compassionate, powerful yet deeply personal.

Application:

Begin to Read Exodus and Leviticus, and meditate on what they are saying. It may take a while, but truly take it all in.

1. Pay Attention to the Details: As you read through Exodus 25–31 and 35–40, notice the specific materials, measurements, and colors God commands for the Tabernacle. Ask: What do these details reveal about God’s character—His creativity, intentionality, and holiness?

2. Reflect on the Purpose Behind the Offerings: When reading Leviticus 1–7, observe the different types of offerings—burnt, grain, sin, and fellowship. Consider: Why did God set these up? What do they say about His desire to be in relationship with His people and make a way for them to be close to Him?

3. Look for God's Heart in the Instructions: Instead of focusing only on the rules, search for God's grace woven through the text—especially in how He makes accommodations for the poor (e.g., Leviticus 5:7, 11). Ask yourself: How does this reflect a God who wants to be near His people, not burden them?

Have a great week! See you on Wednesday!