What can we learn about obedience from the Israelites' work in Exodus 36:14? Setting the Scene • God gave Moses meticulous instructions for the tabernacle (Exodus 25–31). • Exodus 36 records the craftsmen carrying out those directions exactly. • Verse 14: “He made eleven curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle.” Key Observations about Obedience • Specific obedience: God said “eleven curtains…of goat hair” (Exodus 26:7-13); the craftsmen duplicated the specification precisely. • Whole-hearted obedience: They did not substitute cheaper or easier materials; they honored every detail. • Skilled obedience: The workers used God-given abilities (Exodus 36:1-2) to glorify Him, showing that craftsmanship can be an act of worship. • Cooperative obedience: Many hands labored together, reflecting a community committed to the same goal (cf. Nehemiah 4:6). • Unseen obedience: Goat-hair curtains formed the outer, less visible layer, reminding us that faithful service often happens away from public view (Matthew 6:4). Scriptural Echoes • Exodus 40:16 — “Moses did everything just as the LORD had commanded him.” • 1 Samuel 15:22 — “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • John 14:15 — “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Colossians 3:23 — “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men.” Lessons for Today • Obedience is measured by accuracy, not approximation. Following God “almost” is not the same as following Him fully. • God values ordinary tasks done His way just as much as visible ministry. • Using our skills for God’s purposes is obedience; excellence is an expression of devotion. • Community obedience multiplies impact; our faithfulness encourages others to be faithful. • Hidden obedience still matters to God; nothing done for Him is insignificant. Putting It into Practice • Examine instructions God has already given—Scripture commands, personal convictions confirmed by the Word—and carry them out precisely. • Offer your practical talents to the Lord, seeing everyday work as worship. • Serve faithfully even when no one notices, trusting that God does (Hebrews 6:10). • Link arms with fellow believers; collective obedience builds a dwelling place for God among His people (Ephesians 2:21-22). |
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