Exodus 33 - 36

Your Presence Among Us
This portion occurs after the people sin with the gold calf.  The Lord is obviously pleased with Moses' faithfulness, but is still calling them a "stubborn and rebellious people" (33:3).  Moses intercedes on their behalf making this impassioned statement in 33:16, "For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth."  This is absolutely true! God's presence is the difference maker. Without His presence, His spirit, we are nothing. Only He can make a difference in our lives.

This portion also repeats the instructions the Lord gave Moses the first time he was on Mt Sinai - it is almost a word for word repetition.  Additionally it repeats the assignment of the crafting of the Tabernacle to Bezalel and Oholiab.  These men were gifted in craftsmanship, wisdom, and leadership.  A careful reading of chapter 36 reveals that these two men followed the instructions of the Lord to the letter.

This is a good lesson for all of us!  If we will obey His Word and follow those in whom He has placed His gifts of ministry, then His presence will be among us.

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.