Exodus 40 dives into the culmination of the construction of the Tabernacle, which serves as a symbol of God’s presence among the Israelites.

Summary with Verse Numbers:

• Verses 1-16: God instructs Moses on how to set up the Tabernacle and where to place each piece of the sacred furniture.
• Verses 17-33: Moses obeys God’s instructions precisely, setting up the Tabernacle and arranging its furnishings exactly as directed.
• Verses 34-38: Upon completion, the glory of the Lord fills the Tabernacle. A cloud covers it, and the Israelites recognize the presence of God among them, guiding their journey by appearing as a cloud by day and fire by night.

Life Applications:

1. Obedience to God’s Instructions (V. 1-33): Moses’ unwavering obedience to God’s explicit directives can serve as a reminder for believers to heed God’s word and instructions in their lives, pursuing obedience even in intricate details.
2. God’s Presence and Guidance (V. 34-38): The way God dwelt with the Israelites signifies His continuous presence and guidance in the lives of believers today. It encourages them to seek and recognize God’s guidance, especially during their own “wilderness” experiences or periods of uncertainty.
3. Consecration and Service: The detailed consecration of the Tabernacle and the priests illustrates the importance of dedicating oneself and one’s work to God. It provides insight into how believers can offer their lives and service as a form of worship to God, maintaining holiness and integrity in their dealings.
4. Community and Leadership: Moses exemplifies decisive and godly leadership while the Israelites exhibit community cooperation in following God’s presence. It reflects on how believers can function cohesively as a community, respecting leadership and fostering a unified pursuit of godly objectives.
5. Dependence on God: The Israelites’ journey is heavily dependent on the manifestation of God’s presence. This dependence can inspire believers to similarly lean on God in their journeys, looking to Him for direction, provision, and protection.

Exodus 40 encourages believers to pursue obedience, cherish God’s presence, serve with consecration, operate as a community, and be reliant on God for guidance and sustenance in all circumstances.