What can we learn about obedience from the Israelites' actions in Exodus 39:43? Scripture Spotlight “Then Moses inspected all the work, and behold, they had done it just as the LORD had commanded. So Moses blessed them.” – Exodus 39:43 Seeing the Scene After months of painstaking craftsmanship, the artisans bring every piece of the tabernacle to Moses. He carefully examines each item against God’s explicit instructions (Exodus 25–31). The verdict: everything matches the Lord’s blueprint exactly. Their obedience is complete, so Moses pronounces a blessing. Key Observations about Obedience • Obedience is measurable: “just as the LORD had commanded.” • It covers every detail, not merely general intentions. • Obedience is visible; it can be “inspected.” • Blessing follows obedience; God’s representative affirms and blesses. • Collective obedience matters—the whole community participates in doing God’s will. • Obedience is an act of worship; the tabernacle exists for God’s glory, not human applause. Timeless Principles 1. Exact obedience honors God’s holiness. 2. God’s commands are not suggestions; they serve as a pattern to follow (cf. Hebrews 8:5). 3. Faithful obedience invites divine favor (cf. Deuteronomy 28:1–2). 4. Attention to detail in spiritual service reflects reverence for the Lawgiver. 5. Obedience builds communal unity; everyone’s contribution matters. Echoes in the Rest of Scripture • 1 Samuel 15:22 – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • James 1:22 – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Psalm 119:4 – “You have ordained Your precepts, that we should keep them diligently.” Living It Out Today • Seek God’s explicit instruction in His Word before making plans. • Align actions precisely with Scripture, resisting shortcuts. • Invite accountability—let trusted believers “inspect” your work and walk. • View every task, large or small, as worship when done in obedience. • Expect God’s blessing, not as a wage earned, but as the gracious reward He delights to give faithful servants. |
    |