February 05, 2020: SOAP #3716:  Exodus 39-40; Psalm 15; Acts 12

Scripture:  Exodus (NIV) 40:33 And he raised up the court all around the tabernacle and the altar and hung up the screen of the court gate. So, Moses finished the work.
34 Then the cloud covered the tabernacle of meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. 35 And Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle of meeting, because the cloud rested above it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.

Observation:  Progression is an important concept we find in God’s plan dealing with man.  God is a God of order!  His kingdom is an orderly kingdom.  It is run on laws and rules.  Accomplishments are reached in orderly fashion.

In Exodus 39 and 40 we read that the Israelites built each part of tabernacle just “as the Lord commanded Moses.”  Moses then assembled the parts and “finished the work.”  Verse 34 above says “THEN the cloud covered the tabernacle of meeting and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle!”

Application:   Many of God’s promises have a “THEN” preceding.  If we do what God commands, THEN God will release the blessing.  After I learn to tithe, THEN God opens the windows of heaven.  After I learn to give, THEN I learn to receive.

I need to give attention to God’s order—to the progression entwined in God’s plan.  For me the progression started at home, then in Sunday School, then in youth ministry, then in Bible College, then in the US Navy, THEN to pastoring.  Be patient as God leads you through His progression.  Be faithful in each station along the path.  The “THEN” is just around the next bend in the road.

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, keep me anticipating the next “THEN.”  And while waiting, help me be patient,  May I be faithful in doing my part. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!