What steps can we take to invite God's presence into our lives consistently? The Glory That Filled the Tent “Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.” (Exodus 40:34) Israel finished the tabernacle exactly as God prescribed; immediately His glory moved in. That same pattern shows us how to invite His presence into our lives day after day. Step 1: Follow God’s Pattern—Whole-Hearted Obedience • Exodus 40:16 records, “Moses did everything just as the LORD had commanded him.” • Obedience is still the doorway: “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word… We will come to him and make Our home with him.” (John 14:23) • Practical move: read Scripture with an eye to immediate, specific application—then act on it. Step 2: Consecrate the Dwelling—Personal Holiness • “Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart.” (Psalm 24:3-4) • “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands… purify your hearts.” (James 4:8) • Your body is now His tabernacle: “glorify God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) • Regular repentance, forgiveness, and moral integrity keep the “tent” fit for His glory. Step 3: Furnish the House with Praise and Worship • The Lord “is holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” (Psalm 22:3) • “Through Jesus… let us continually offer… a sacrifice of praise.” (Hebrews 13:15) • Play worship music, sing, speak thanks out loud—praise creates a throne room atmosphere in any room. Step 4: Keep the Fire Burning—Persistent Prayer • “The fire on the altar shall be kept burning; it shall not be extinguished.” (Leviticus 6:12) • “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) • Daily, scheduled times plus spontaneous moments of conversation with God stoke that altar fire. Step 5: Walk in Expectant Faith • Israel waited in front of the completed tabernacle anticipating God’s move; He came. • “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6) • Thank God in advance for His nearness; faith welcomes what He has promised. Step 6: Guard Unity and Community • The tabernacle was a community project; glory arrived where God’s people stood together. • “With one accord… praising God.” (Acts 2:46-47) • Jesus prayed that we “may be one” so we could share His glory. (John 17:22) • Reconcile quickly, serve one another, gather consistently; corporate harmony attracts His presence. Living It Out—A Quick Checklist for Each Day □ Start with Scripture and obey what it says. □ Confess sins, forgive others—keep the dwelling clean. □ Lift audible praise and thanksgiving. □ Pray throughout the day, not just in set times. □ Maintain an attitude of faith and gratitude. □ Pursue peace and unity with fellow believers. When these elements mirror the tabernacle pattern, the same God who filled the tent with visible glory delights to fill our ordinary moments with His abiding presence. |
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