Set up this Tabernacle according to the pattern you were shown on the mountain. (Exodus 26:30)

Read: Exodus 26:1-27:21, Matthew 25:1-30, Psalm 31:1-8, Proverbs 8:1-11

Relate: Fine linen, goat hair, ram skin, goat skin, frame, support, gilding. This is the order of what God speaks about to Moses regarding how to build the tabernacle. It is pretty much the opposite order I would notice it. First thing I would see would be the outer curtain and all the gold. Then I would notice its structure and finally, only after I have entered in, would I notice the thing that God began with.

We tend to work backwards, starting with the outside and working our way in. First change your appearance, then lets deal with your behavior. Now that we’ve got those squared away lets start working on cleaning out that mind. OK, now that you look good, act good, and think right, now we’ll start digging into the heart. God, in building the Tabernacle started with the inside then worked out. God, when building us does the very same thing.

React: It is easy to change my appearance. I already did it at least once today. Showered, shaved, changed and I’m a new man. Give me 20 minutes on Halloween and I can be anything you want. It takes a bit more work to try and change my behavior. I really have to work at it, but it can be done. With effort and self discipline, over time I can start acting like a fine upstanding citizen. (Question though, what’s the fun in that?) Almost impossible is trying to get me to change my mind. Over long periods of time it does happen. Through a single argument, debate, or piece of information… not a chance. The thing that is impossible, though, is changing my heart. Only God can do that. It is a good thing that is exactly what He does and that is how He works.

Respond: 

Dear God,
I give You my heart. Do with it as You will. Change and mold me as You know best. I want to be a tabernacle for Your dwelling. So often I look at myself and at others from the wrong direction. Help me to see how You see and respond the way You responded. Don’t let me get caught up with behavior and appearance issues, let me guard and shelter my heart and the hearts of those You have placed in my life.
Amen