Beginning with God

In His dialogues with Moses in the wilderness, God provided great details about His instructions for the tabernacle and everything about it. Its dimensions, design, and the materials to be used in its construction.

This was to be the place where God would meet with His people. He told Moses, “There I will meet with you.” From above the mercy seat, He promised to “speak to you about all that I will give you in commandment for the sons of Israel” (Exodus 25:22).

In these instructions, God directed that the tabernacle was to be “set up” on the “first day of the first month.” In other words, they were to begin their year by establishing a place where God could speak to them.

While this had particular meaning for the Israelites, it provides a powerful message to each of us. The tabernacle represents the ways and places in which God communicates to His people. He can speak to us during times of private prayer as well as during church services. He can speak through His Word as well as through sermons and books. He can speak through His Spirit as well as through dreams and visions.

But there are constants. He looks for people who obey His Word and seek His leading. And for people who listen to Him. Who are sensitive to His voice. As Jesus said repeatedly, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Matthew 11:15).

At the beginning of this new year, make a commitment to set aside time to be with God. To listen to Him. No matter what you have done in the past, this is a commitment you need to make today, and every day. Humble yourself before Him and seek to follow His leading, for you.