Friday, March 19, 2010

Exodus 35-40 The people brought to the Lord their offerings and materials for the Tabernacle construction and its furnishings and for the holy garments. They brought their offerings "if their hearts were stirred and they desired to do so", "both men and women came, all whose hearts were willing". Two craftsman, Bezalel and Oholiab, were gifted by the Lord with "wisdom, skill, and intelligence to construct an furnish the Tabernacle, just as the Lord has commanded". Gifts and materials were offered each morning and soon the craftsmen told Moses, "We have more than enough on hand now to complete the job", so Moses sent a message throughout the camp, "Bring no more materials!-You have already given more than enough." When the work was completed, Moses inspected everything and blessed the people because the work had been done just as the Lord commanded. "Then a cloud covered the Tabernacle, and the glorious presence of the Lord filled it." "Whenever the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle and moved, the people of Israel set out on their journey, following it." God's presence continued to guide the Israelites in their journeys as He remained faithful to His promises of provision and blessings.