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More Hope for Our Time ~ Reflections on Exodus 40

By: Steve Negley

Posted: September 22, 2020

Category: Daily Devotional

34 Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. 35 Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled upon it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. 36 Whenever the cloud was taken up from the tabernacle, the Israelites would set out on each stage of their journey; 37 but if the cloud was not taken up, then they did not set out until the day that it was taken up. 38 For the cloud of the Lord was on the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud[f] by night, before the eyes of all the house of Israel at each stage of their journey.

Exodus 40:34-38

The biblical book of Exodus tells the story of how God’s people were led from captivity (and a history of 400 years of slavery) toward their Promised Land (a land flowing with milk and honey.)

How did they keep their focus and hope in their wilderness journey? They knew God was with them.

Knowing how hard it might be for them at this time in history, God was visibly present. A cloud would appear in the daytime, and fire would come at night. The people followed God as they moved and were content to stay where they camped as long as God stayed with them.

I wish at times that I could see God’s presence that clearly. But, at our time in history, I can start by re-telling the story of how God delivered our spiritual ancestors from slavery and bondage, and did ultimately lead them to their Promised Land.

God was present. And God is present still.

Prayer

God, let me sense Your presence, and trust that You are leading me to a land of milk and honey and hope. Amen.