February 10, 2024
Read Exodus 29-31, Psalm 41
Do you understand what it means to consecrate yourself before God? To consecrate something or someone means to dedicate them as sacred or set apart for formal purpose to serve. In Exodus 29-31 you will read about the priest who were consecrated for service to God and the objects that would be used in the sacrificial offerings. “This is what you are to do to consecrate them, so that they may serve me as priests” v. 1. Exodus 29 describes the special garments (the tunic, robe, ephod, and breastplate) that the priests would wear as they served. Exodus 30 describes the altar, basin for washing, the oil and incense, that was to be used in the sacrifices by the priests. If describes how specifically to make them. There is a warning in Exodus 30:37-38 for Israel not to make them for their own personal use. “Do not make any incense with this formula for yourselves; consider it holy to the LORD. 38 Whoever makes any like it to enjoy its fragrance must be cut off from his people.” Exodus 31 describes the two craftsmen that God has selected to do the work with their skills.
Even though we might not be a priest, especially in the Old Testament time, we do need to think about the idea of consecration before the Lord. I believe we are set apart to serve God as his disciples. It might not been in a role of a pastor or church leader, but I do believe that God has a purpose and plan for all of us to fulfill. Do you know what calling or purpose that God has for your life? It might be something as simple as to be a godly influence on your family and children or grandchildren. It might be to serve God as a faithful member in a church where you teach or serve along side others. It might be to be a faithful witness of your faith to others at work or in your routine daily life. If you are not sure what God has consecrated, you to do my encouragement is to pray that God will show you this and for God to prepare you for what ever task he has called you to.
What else do you see in these chapters? What words, phrases, or themes stand out to you? Add your thoughts below.
DId God Really Say... 