In what ways can we "approach the tent of meeting" in our daily lives? Opening Verse “Therefore for the generations to come you are to present the burnt offering at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting before the LORD. There I will meet with you to speak with you.” (Exodus 29:42) Seeing the Pattern in the Wilderness • The Tent of Meeting was the tangible center of Israel’s life, a place of sacrifice, cleansing, and divine fellowship. • God’s promise—“There I will meet with you”—shows His desire for personal, face-to-face communion. • The pattern is fulfilled, not discarded, in Christ: “The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14). Christ, Our Living Tent of Meeting • Hebrews 10:19-22: Through Jesus’ blood we “enter the Most Holy Place” and “draw near with a sincere heart.” • Ephesians 2:18: “Through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” • The meeting place is no longer canvas and poles; it is a Person. Every approach to Jesus is an approach to God’s throne. Daily Pathways to Approach • Unhurried Prayer – Set moments in the day when you “come to the entrance” (Psalm 55:17). – Speak honestly; the Tent of Meeting was never a place for rehearsed speeches. • Word-Centered Meditation – The lampstand inside the tabernacle never went dark (Exodus 27:20-21). Keep Scripture lit in your mind—morning, commute, lunch break. – Ask the Spirit to turn written words into living conversation (John 16:13-14). • Consistent Confession and Cleansing – Priests washed at the bronze basin before ministering (Exodus 30:18-21). – 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive…” Confession keeps the doorway clear. • Corporate Worship – Israel gathered at the entrance as one people (Leviticus 8:3-4). – Hebrews 10:25: do “not neglect meeting together.” Sunday worship is a present-day courtyard where we sing, listen, and offer ourselves. • Sacrificial Obedience – Romans 12:1: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice.” – Every act of obedience—serving a neighbor, sharing the gospel, resisting temptation—is incense rising from the altar. • Ongoing Awareness of His Indwelling Presence – 1 Corinthians 6:19: “Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.” – Whisper a quick acknowledgment—“Lord, You are here”—while driving, working, or winding down for bed. Guarding the Heart as Holy Ground • Reject distractions that crowd the courtyard: bitterness, envy, endless scrolling. • Cultivate thanksgiving; it is the music that fills the sanctuary (Psalm 100:4). • Keep short accounts with God and people; unresolved offense dims the lamp. Stepping Forward with Confidence The Tent of Meeting teaches that God invites, prepares, and delights to meet with His people. Because Jesus opened the way, every moment holds potential for holy encounter. Walk toward that open curtain today—often, intentionally, expectantly—and find Him waiting to speak with you. |
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