Lesson 1: Oppression – The Background and the Birth of Moses

1.3 Moses Is Born
A Child of Hope: God’s Plan Begins in Secret

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Introduction

Some lives begin in the greatest distress—and yet God uses them in marvelous ways. Such was the life of Moses. When he was born, every Hebrew boy in Egypt faced death. And yet he survived. Why? Because God’s hand was visibly upon him. Exodus 2:1–10 powerfully shows us how God’s providence works amid threat, fear, and chaos—and what it means for us today.

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Bible Study: Exodus 2:1–10 

Moses is born into a time of overwhelming oppression. The Pharaoh has ordered every Hebrew boy to be killed (Exodus 1:22). Yet a Levite couple defies the decree and gives birth to a son—Moses. They recognize that this child is “good” (Hebrew tov), a hint of divine purpose.

For three months they hide him. Finally, they place him in a reed basket on the Nile, trusting that God Himself will take control. And indeed: Pharaoh’s daughter finds him, is moved with compassion, and adopts him as her own son. Moses grows up in the palace—kept safe, protected, and prepared.

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Answers to the Questions

Question 1: Read Exodus 2:1–10. What role did God’s providence and protection play at Moses’ birth?

• Birth in Danger: Although all Hebrew boys are to be killed, God gives the parents courage to keep Moses alive.

• Called “Good” (tov): This term echoes the creation story. God sees in Moses more than a baby—He sees a future calling.

• Rescue on the River: The basket is set adrift at exactly the right time and place—straight into the hands of Pharaoh’s daughter.

• Return to His Mother: Moses is not only saved but also spends time with his birth mother, receiving vital spiritual grounding.

All these elements show that God acts decisively even when humanly all seems lost. His ways are often hidden, but never random.

Question 2: How much do you learn that ultimately proves useless for what really matters?

Moses received an extraordinary education in Pharaoh’s house—language, leadership, warfare, diplomacy: all the makings of a great ruler. But when God calls him, most of those skills prove irrelevant. God leads Moses into the wilderness for forty years, where he learns what truly counts: humility, obedience, and dependence on God.

This question challenges us today: How much time, energy, and effort do we invest in things of no everlasting value? Knowledge, abilities, status, control—they are good when used for God, but worthless if they draw us away from Him.

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Spiritual Principles

• God’s plan often starts in secret. Great callings arise from humble beginnings.

• God’s protection works through simple means. A mother, a basket, a child—these suffice for Him.

• True training happens in God’s school. Worldly wisdom alone cannot equip one for spiritual mission.

• God fulfills His promises even when all odds are against them.

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Application for Daily Life

• Trust that God sees your life—even if no one else notices.

• Offer Him your “today” even when you don’t understand your “tomorrow.”

• Examine your learning—does it draw you closer to God or farther away?

• Embrace apparent setbacks (like Moses’ wilderness years) as God’s preparation.

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Conclusion

Moses’ story begins in utmost danger and culminates in divine calling. His life proves: God rescues those whom others discard—and then uses them. His story shows that no child, no person, and no life is accidental. God’s eyes are fixed on what He Himself has deemed “good.”

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Thought of the Day

Your journey may not start in a palace but in a simple basket. Yet if God’s hand rests upon you, He will lead you right where you are needed.

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Illustration – “The Baby in the Box”

Hamburg, 2023
Garbage collectors first thought it was an animal: a cardboard box, drenched, shivering under a bridge on a winter’s night. When they opened it, they found an infant wrapped in an old coat—with a note pinned to his chest: “Please save him. His name is Samuel.”

He was taken to the hospital and stabilized. No mother or father came forward. After a few media reports, the story quietly slipped from the public eye. But a pediatric nurse named Miriam never forgot him. She contacted child services and prayed continually. Weeks later, she was granted custody.

“I don’t know why,” she often said, “but I believe God has a plan for him.”

Samuel was different—quiet, observant, thoughtful. In school he stood out not for grades but for helping others unseen. At seventeen he began mentoring other foster youth. At twenty-one he studied social work. By thirty he led an international children’s charity—quietly, effectively, in deep faith.

His colleagues sometimes ask why he fights so passionately for life. He smiles and says,
“Because I was meant to die—but God had other plans.”

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-oppression-the-background-and-the-birth-of-moses-1-4-moses-is-born-exodus-living-faith/

July 2, 2025

DAILY BIBLE READING

Exodus 27 – A Holy Place – A Holy Commission

The altar, the courtyard, and the lampstand – God’s order for His presence

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Bible Text – Exodus 27 (KJV)

1 And thou shalt make an altar of shittim wood, five cubits long, and five cubits broad; the altar shall be foursquare: and the height thereof shall be three cubits.

2 And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass.

3 And thou shalt make his pans to receive his ashes, and his shovels, and his basons, and his fleshhooks, and his firepans: all the vessels thereof thou shalt make of brass.

4 And thou shalt make for it a grate of network of brass; and upon the net shalt thou make four brasen rings in the four corners thereof.

5 And thou shalt put it under the compass of the altar beneath, that the net may be even to the midst of the altar.

6 And thou shalt make staves for the altar, staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with brass.

7 And the staves shall be put into the rings, and the staves shall be upon the two sides of the altar, to bear it.

8 Hollow with boards shalt thou make it: as it was shewed thee in the mount, so shall they make it.

9 And thou shalt make the court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward there shall be hangings for the court of fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side:

10 And the twenty pillars thereof and their twenty sockets shall be of brass; the hooks of the pillars and their fillets shall be of silver.

11 And likewise for the north side in length there shall be hangings of an hundred cubits long, and his twenty pillars and their twenty sockets of brass; the hooks of the pillars and their fillets of silver.

12 And for the breadth of the court on the west side shall be hangings of fifty cubits: their pillars ten, and their sockets ten.

13 And the breadth of the court on the east side eastward shall be fifty cubits.

14 The hangings of one side of the gate shall be fifteen cubits: their pillars three, and their sockets three.

15 And on the other side shall be hangings fifteen cubits: their pillars three, and their sockets three.

16 And for the gate of the court shall be an hanging of twenty cubits, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework: and their pillars shall be four, and their sockets four.

17 All the pillars round about the court shall be filleted with silver; their hooks shall be of silver, and their sockets of brass.

18 The length of the court shall be an hundred cubits, and the breadth fifty every where, and the height five cubits of fine twined linen, and their sockets of brass.

19 All the vessels of the tabernacle in all the service thereof, and all the pins thereof, and all the pins of the court, shall be of brass.

20 And thou shalt command the children of Israel, that they bring thee pure oil olive beaten for the light, to cause the lamp to burn always.

21 In the tabernacle of the congregation without the vail, which is before the testimony, Aaron and his sons shall order it from evening to morning before the Lord: it shall be a statute for ever unto their generations on the behalf of the children of Israel.

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Introduction

In Exodus 27 God gives detailed instructions for building the altar, the courtyard, and for preparing the holy oil that keeps the lamp in the sanctuary burning. At first glance these chapters are full of dimensions, materials, and construction details—but they tell a deeper spiritual story: God desires to dwell among His people, and He prepares a place marked by holiness, order, and light.

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Commentary

1. The Burnt-Offering Altar (verses 1–8)

   • The altar stands at the center of the courtyard—made of acacia wood overlaid with bronze, with “horns” at each corner. It symbolizes the means of atonement between God and humanity.

   • The sacrifices offered there point prophetically to the perfect sacrifice of Jesus.

   • The carrying poles show that God’s presence goes with His people, even on the journey.

2. The Courtyard (verses 9–19)

   • A fenced enclosure of linen curtains and pillars defines the holy space. It is the place where people approach God.

   • Every detail—clean white linen, precise measurements, beautiful colors—speaks of purity, structure, and beauty.

   • The entrance curtain of blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen points to Christ, who is our access to the Father.

3. The Holy Oil and the Light (verses 20–21)

   • Only the purest pressed olive oil may be used so that lamps burn continually, morning and evening.

   • Light represents God’s presence and truth.

   • Aaron and his sons—the priests—are tasked with maintaining this light. It is an ongoing, faithful service.

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Summary

Exodus 27 may seem technical, but its words carry profound spiritual depth: God prepares an environment of holiness, purity, and order. The altar signifies reconciliation, the courtyard signifies our coming near to Him, and the lampstand signifies His enduring presence. Nothing is left to chance; God cares deeply how He is worshiped and reveals to us how to meet Him.

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Message for Us Today

• Even though we no longer build a physical courtyard or altar, God calls us to the same spiritual posture.

• Jesus is our sacrifice, our altar, and our light.

• God seeks a pure heart that daily has fresh “oil”—spiritual nourishment and connection with Him.

• Like the priests of old, we are called to keep the flame of faith alive in a world often shrouded in darkness.

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Reflection Questions

• Is your “altar” still active? Do you have daily times when you draw near to God?

• Does your light still burn brightly, or has it grown dim from fatigue, distraction, or sin?

• What “materials” shape your life? Is your foundation built on God’s Word or on things that will pass away?

Perhaps today is the day to begin rebuilding your “sanctuary”—in your heart.

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June 28 – July 05, 2025

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING

Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 14

Destruction of Sodom

Read online here

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Introduction

Sodom was beautiful, wealthy, and cultured—yet it was lost in guilt, sin, and ultimately in God’s judgment.
The story of Lot and the destruction of Sodom is more than a historical event.
It is a warning, an invitation, and a mirror for our own time.
Amid prosperity, pleasure, and religious indifference, we still hear God’s voice today:

“Flee for your life! Don’t look back.” (Genesis 19:17)

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Commentary

1. The Allure of Sodom – Outward Wealth, Inward Decay

Sodom was “like the garden of the Lord” (Genesis 13:10)—fertile, beautiful, and convenient. But:

• Abundance led to pride.

• Idleness corrupted character.

• Wealth fueled selfishness and moral decay.

Sodom was prosperous—but spiritually dead.

2. God’s Warning – Grace Before Judgment

God sent angels to rescue Lot.
Lot was righteous, but hesitant.
His family was attached to comfort and possessions.

God’s grace is real—but it has a window of opportunity.

3. Lot’s Wife – A Heart in Sodom

She was on the path of rescue, but her heart looked back.
One last glance cost her life.

It’s not about where your feet are—but where your heart is.

4. The Consequences of Wrong Choices

Lot’s descendants (the Moabites and Ammonites) became enemies of God.
One wrong step led generations into ruin.

Personal decisions can have consequences that span generations.

5. The Contrast: Abraham and Lot

Abraham lived by faith as a stranger and pilgrim.
Lot sought comfort—and nearly lost everything.

Faith chooses what is eternal, even when it is hard today.

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Summary

The downfall of Sodom is:

• a testimony to God’s patience—but also His justice,

• a mirror of today’s moral condition,

• a call to repentance,

• a reminder: wealth without God is dangerous,

• a warning: do not delay when God calls!

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Message for Us Today

We live in a world like Sodom—marked by prosperity, selfishness, and moral relativism.
God’s grace still calls today—not to condemn, but to save.
Don’t delay when God calls—the time of grace is limited.
Your choices affect your family, your descendants, and your eternity.
Seek the better homeland—the city whose builder and maker is God.

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Reflection Question

Where is my “Sodom”? Where do I choose comfort over obedience?
Do I hesitate like Lot—even though I know God’s voice?
Is my heart more attached to possessions, career, and security—or to God’s will?
Do I live like Abraham—a guest in this world, waiting for the heavenly?

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/02-07-2025-exodus-chapter-27-believe-his-prophets/

02.07.2025 | Two Voices – One Heart | HEART ANCHOR
Who do you give control over your thoughts?
Romans 8:6–7

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Bible Text

“For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed it cannot.”
Romans 8:6–7

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Introduction

Do you know that feeling of being torn apart inside? On the one hand you want to do what’s right, yet on the other hand thoughts, feelings, or habits pull you in the opposite direction. Romans 8:6–7 describes exactly that inner struggle—and points us to a path of true peace.

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Devotional

Paul speaks here of two paths, two mindsets, two ways of life. “Setting the mind on the flesh” describes a life led by human desires, selfishness, and one’s own idea of right and wrong. It sounds harsh: “death,” “hostile to God.” But Paul doesn’t want to condemn us—he wants to awaken us!

The second path is “setting the mind on the Spirit.” This means being filled with God’s Spirit—love, peace, patience, and truth. It’s not merely a religious feeling or a nice idea. It’s a lifestyle born from a genuine relationship with Jesus.

Ellen White writes:

“Thoughts must be disciplined, brought into order, and controlled by God. This is a work that requires prayer, perseverance, and daily self-denial.”
(Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 128)

This battle starts in our heads. Our thought life shapes our decisions—and thus our lives. So the question isn’t, “Am I good enough for God?” but, “To whom do I give the daily control of my thoughts?”

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Story – The Battle in Jason’s Mind

Jason was seventeen, athletic, smart—and yet he felt empty. From the outside everything seemed fine: good grades, lots of friends, popular on social media. But the moment he was alone in his room, these thoughts crept in: “You’re not good enough.” “What if you fail?” “Nobody really understands you.”

He had started focusing ever more on himself. His life revolved around looking good. Likes. Comments. Approval. He trained until he collapsed. Studied until he could hardly sleep. Everything had to be perfect—because he thought that would finally bring him peace.

One night he lay awake at 2:43 AM. His phone’s screen glowed, but he had no energy left to scroll through TikTok. Something in him was tired—not his body, but his inner being.
“Why am I so broken even though I’m doing everything right?” he whispered into the dark room.

The next day his classmate Anna asked if he wanted to join youth group. Jason hesitated. Church felt like a relic of childhood. But there was something about her genuine smile that made him curious.
“Okay. I’ll come.”

That evening the youth leader spoke about Romans 8—not rules, not guilt, but the inner battle between “the flesh”—the life we want to control ourselves—and “the Spirit”—the life we let God lead. Jason sat frozen. That was his life: the constant effort to be strong enough on his own—and the quiet, clear realization: I can’t do this alone.

After the talk he asked Anna,
“Can you… really feel that peace? That inner peace?”
She nodded: “Yes. Not always instantly. But if you really give Jesus room, your thinking will change—little by little.”

That night Jason went home, knelt down—for the first time in years—and prayed. Not a big, beautiful prayer. Just,
“Jesus, if you’re real—take over. I’m done trying to handle everything myself.”

From then on everything wasn’t perfect. But something was different. Jason began reading the Bible—not out of obligation, but because he wanted to hear what God thinks of him. He began watching his thoughts—and noticing when he got in his own way again.

Once he read a quote from Ellen White that helped him especially:

“As we fix our thoughts on Christ, the heart is cleansed, the will strengthened, and life begins to resemble His.”
(Steps to Christ, ch. 8)

Since then that’s been his goal: not to be perfect, but to be authentic in Jesus. Today, a year later, Jason himself accompanies young people who feel lost inside. And every time he reads Romans 8, he knows: The battle is real—but peace is stronger.

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Reflection – What does it mean for you?

Perhaps you’ve noticed lately that your thoughts are often negative, critical, or anxious. You feel driven, stressed, or empty. Romans 8 invites you to ask anew: What drives me? Jesus wants to give you new thoughts through His Spirit—thoughts of hope, courage, and love.

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Action Steps for Today

• Thought Check: What’s going through your mind today? Which “wolf” are you feeding?

• Read the Bible: Read one chapter of Romans each day and ask God to speak to you.

• Prayer: Ask the Holy Spirit to renew your mind—intentionally each morning.

• Talk: Share your inner struggles with a friend. You are not alone.

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Prayer

Father in heaven,
You see how often I struggle inside. Sometimes I let my feelings, impatience, or selfishness lead me. Please forgive me.
Give me Your Spirit to transform my thinking.
Help me make the right choices—those that lead to life and peace.
Fill my heart with Your love and give me strength to put You first every day.
Amen.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/02-07-25-two-voices-one-heart-heart-anchor-youth-devotional/

Lesson 1: Oppression – The Background and the Birth of Moses

1.3 The Hebrew Midwives
Courage for the Truth: Faithful Women Against the King’s Command

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Introduction

There are moments in history when faith becomes visible not through words, but through courageous actions. Moments when ordinary people – mostly unnoticed by the world – touch the heart of God because they refuse to serve evil. The story of the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, belongs to such sacred moments.

In the first chapter of Exodus, we see the shadow of oppression falling over the people of Israel. The Pharaoh’s fear grows as the people of God multiply – and fear turns into hatred, and hatred into murder. Yet right in the middle of this scenario of political violence, religious arrogance, and systematic destruction, two women act differently. Not because they are powerful – but because they fear God and obey Him more than men.

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Bible Study: Exodus 1:9–21

The text describes the increasing persecution of the Israelites by Pharaoh. When forced labor fails to suppress the growing people, he orders the Hebrew midwives to kill all male newborns at birth.

Who are Shiphrah and Puah?
Two ordinary women. No royal status. No theological training.
But they knew God – or rather: they feared Him.

They stand in sharp contrast to the nameless Pharaoh who considers himself divine, yet is remembered as a dark, faceless shadow in history.

“But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them.”
– Exodus 1:17

What did they do?
They disobeyed the command – with courageous wisdom.
They acted out of accountability to God – not to a regime that claimed divine authority.

And God? He blessed them – with descendants, with honor, with an everlasting memory in the Holy Scriptures.

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Answers to the Questions

Question 1: Read Exodus 1:9–21. What key role did the faithful midwives play, and why are they remembered in biblical history?

The midwives saved lives when Pharaoh commanded death. They followed God even when it was dangerous. They resisted a godless culture that justified the killing of innocent children as politically necessary.

They are part of biblical memory because their obedience marked the beginning of deliverance. Without them – no Moses, no Exodus, no salvation from Egypt. Their courage was the first crack in Pharaoh’s claim to power.

Question 2: The midwives didn’t just know what was right – they did it. What is the obvious message for us?

It’s not enough to recognize God’s will – we must also follow it.

In a time when ethical compromise is the norm, God calls us to obey Him not just with our hearts, but with our whole lives. Courageous obedience may come at a cost – but God sees it, blesses it, and uses it to write history.

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Spiritual Principles

• God uses the unseen for visible miracles.

• The fear of God protects from the fear of people.

• True obedience is revealed not in comfortable times, but under pressure.

• Resistance to evil is an act of worship.

• Your “no” to sin may be a “yes” to the salvation of many.

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Application for Daily Life

• In the family: Teach your children that truth is more important than comfort.

• At work: Follow your conscience, even if it costs you.

• In society: Be willing to stand for life, truth, and God’s honor – even if you stand alone.

• In faith: Stay faithful, even when you don’t feel God’s presence – He sees you.

• In crisis: Know this – sometimes God writes history through small decisions made by faithful people.

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Conclusion

Two women, one empire, one divine plan.
The story of Shiphrah and Puah shows us: you don’t need to be a prophet to do God’s will.
It’s enough to fear Him – and obey.

Their story is a monument of faith:
Simple. Courageous. Unforgettable.

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Thought of the Day

“Whoever fears God more than man will shape history – even if they never realize it themselves.”

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Illustration – “Miriam’s Decision”

Miriam was a nurse in the maternity ward of a major Western hospital. The clinic was modern, the routine efficient. Every day she saw new life begin – but also decisions she found hard to bear.

One Tuesday morning, wearing her plain white coat, she entered the delivery room as usual. It was the 38th week of a high-risk pregnancy. The child was expected to be healthy – but after a late ultrasound, the family had changed their mind.
“Not viable enough,” the doctor whispered.
“It’s our right,” the mother said firmly.

Miriam stood frozen. She knew the numbers, the diagnoses, the protocols. She knew the forms, the language of ethics boards. But something inside her screamed: “This is wrong.”

She had felt it before – but this time she couldn’t look away.

She prayed silently:
“Lord, give me courage. Show me what’s right – and help me do it.”

Then she spoke. Calm. Clear. Resolute:
“I cannot assist in this procedure. My conscience won’t allow it.”

Silence. Cold stares. The head doctor stepped forward.
“Miriam, this is your duty. It’s legal. If you don’t cooperate, you’re at risk.”

She nodded. “I know. But I don’t just answer to protocol – I answer to God.”

She was reassigned. Later came a disciplinary hearing. Some colleagues avoided her. But in her heart, there was peace – deeper than the world’s applause.

A year later: same clinic. A young mother in tears. She had seen Miriam that day – though Miriam didn’t know it.
Now, with her newborn in her arms, she said:
“I thought I was doing the right thing back then. But your courage changed me. I kept my child. Thank you.”

Miriam swallowed. And smiled. Not because she was admired –
But because she knew:

Obedience bears fruit. And God never forgets a faithful servant.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-oppression-the-background-and-the-birth-of-moses-1-3-the-hebrew-midwives-exodus-living-faith/

July 1, 2025

DAILY BIBLE READING

Exodus 26 – The Tabernacle: God’s Dwelling Among His People

A Place of Holiness, Order, and Divine Presence

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Bible Text – Exodus 26 (KJV)

1 Moreover thou shalt make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: with cherubims of cunning work shalt thou make them.

2 The length of one curtain shall be eight and twenty cubits, and the breadth of one curtain four cubits: and every one of the curtains shall have one measure.

3 The five curtains shall be coupled together one to another; and other five curtains shall be coupled one to another.

4 And thou shalt make loops of blue upon the edge of the one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling; and likewise shalt thou make in the uttermost edge of another curtain, in the coupling of the second.

5 Fifty loops shalt thou make in the one curtain, and fifty loops shalt thou make in the edge of the curtain that is in the coupling of the second; that the loops may take hold one of another.

6 And thou shalt make fifty taches of gold, and couple the curtains together with the taches: and it shall be one tabernacle.

7 And thou shalt make curtains of goats’ hair to be a covering upon the tabernacle: eleven curtains shalt thou make.

8 The length of one curtain shall be thirty cubits, and the breadth of one curtain four cubits: and the eleven curtains shall be all of one measure.

9 And thou shalt couple five curtains by themselves, and six curtains by themselves, and shalt double the sixth curtain in the forefront of the tabernacle.

10 And thou shalt make fifty loops on the edge of the one curtain that is outmost in the coupling, and fifty loops in the edge of the curtain which coupleth the second.

11 And thou shalt make fifty taches of brass, and put the taches into the loops, and couple the tent together, that it may be one.

12 And the remnant that remaineth of the curtains of the tent, the half curtain that remaineth, shall hang over the backside of the tabernacle.

13 And a cubit on the one side, and a cubit on the other side of that which remaineth in the length of the curtains of the tent, it shall hang over the sides of the tabernacle on this side and on that side, to cover it.

14 And thou shalt make a covering for the tent of rams’ skins dyed red, and a covering above of badgers’ skins.

15 And thou shalt make boards for the tabernacle of shittim wood standing up.

16 Ten cubits shall be the length of a board, and a cubit and a half shall be the breadth of one board.

17 Two tenons shall there be in one board, set in order one against another: thus shalt thou make for all the boards of the tabernacle.

18 And thou shalt make the boards for the tabernacle, twenty boards on the south side southward.

19 And thou shalt make forty sockets of silver under the twenty boards; two sockets under one board for his two tenons, and two sockets under another board for his two tenons.

20 And for the second side of the tabernacle on the north side there shall be twenty boards:

21 And their forty sockets of silver; two sockets under one board, and two sockets under another board.

22 And for the sides of the tabernacle westward thou shalt make six boards.

23 And two boards shalt thou make for the corners of the tabernacle in the two sides.

24 And they shall be coupled together beneath, and they shall be coupled together above the head of it unto one ring: thus shall it be for them both; they shall be for the two corners.

25 And they shall be eight boards, and their sockets of silver, sixteen sockets; two sockets under one board, and two sockets under another board.

26 And thou shalt make bars of shittim wood; five for the boards of the one side of the tabernacle,

27 And five bars for the boards of the other side of the tabernacle, and five bars for the boards of the side of the tabernacle, for the two sides westward.

28 And the middle bar in the midst of the boards shall reach from end to end.

29 And thou shalt overlay the boards with gold, and make their rings of gold for places for the bars: and thou shalt overlay the bars with gold.

30 And thou shalt rear up the tabernacle according to the fashion thereof which was shewed thee in the mount.

31 And thou shalt make a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen of cunning work: with cherubims shall it be made:

32 And thou shalt hang it upon four pillars of shittim wood overlaid with gold: their hooks shall be of gold, upon the four sockets of silver.

33 And thou shalt hang up the vail under the taches, that thou mayest bring in thither within the vail the ark of the testimony: and the vail shall divide unto you between the holy place and the most holy.

34 And thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the ark of the testimony in the most holy place.

35 And thou shalt set the table without the vail, and the candlestick over against the table on the side of the tabernacle toward the south: and thou shalt put the table on the north side.

36 And thou shalt make an hanging for the door of the tent, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework.

37 And thou shalt make for the hanging five pillars of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold, and their hooks shall be of gold: and thou shalt cast five sockets of brass for them.

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Introduction

In the midst of a wandering nation in the wilderness, God gives His people a remarkable instruction: He wants to dwell among them. Not in a palace, not on a mountaintop, but right in their midst—visible, tangible, and orderly.
Exodus chapter 26 reveals the detailed construction plan for the tabernacle (Hebrew: Mishkan, “dwelling”), a sanctuary entirely centered on God’s holiness, beauty, and presence.

These seemingly technical building instructions are more than architectural details: they reflect a spiritual principle—God loves order, demands holiness, and desires to dwell among His people.

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Commentary

1. The Structure Made of Precious Fabrics (verses 1–14)

The tabernacle is made up of artfully woven curtains and coverings. White linen (purity), blue (heaven/divinity), purple (royalty), and scarlet (sacrifice) all symbolically represent different aspects of divine truth. Cherubim—angelic beings guarding God’s throne—are embroidered into the fabric.
God’s presence demands beauty and symbolism.

Several protective layers are placed over the structure: goat hair, rams’ skins dyed red, and durable animal skins.
On the outside, the tabernacle appears simple, but its interior is glorious—a picture of spiritual depth behind outward humility.

2. The Frame of Boards and Bars (verses 15–30)

The structure isn’t random but sturdy and reliable, made from acacia wood—a tough, long-lasting material. The boards stand fitted in silver sockets and are overlaid with gold—symbolizing holiness founded on redemption (silver = ransom).
God’s house needs spiritual strength, not emotionalism. It needs structure—and it holds value.

Crossbars connect the boards—symbolizing unity in diversity.
In God’s kingdom, no one stands alone—everyone belongs.

3. The Curtains – Access and Boundaries (verses 31–37)

The Most Holy Place is separated by a richly embroidered curtain adorned with cherubim. Only the high priest may enter—once a year.
Access to God is not to be taken lightly—holiness requires separation.

Another curtain at the entrance of the tabernacle symbolizes invitation—but also distinction. Access to God exists, but only on His terms.

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Summary

God gives Moses detailed instructions to build the tabernacle.

The structure is made of woven curtains, a wooden frame, connecting bars, and two curtains.

Everything holds symbolic meaning—colors, materials, and measurements.

The layout separates the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place—revealing God’s call to reverence, purity, and order.

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Message for Us Today

God wants to dwell among us—not just symbolically, but truly.
But this God is holy. His presence is not random; it is marked by divine order. This chapter reminds us:

Holiness needs space. And that space needs structure.

Today, we—the believers—are God’s temple (see 1 Corinthians 3:16).
How are we building our “spiritual tent”?
Is our life orderly, pure, and prepared for God’s presence—or is there spiritual chaos?

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Reflection Questions

What if God said to you today, “I want to dwell with you”?

Would He find a cleansed room in your heart?

Is there a “curtain” in your life—a clear distinction between the holy and the worldly?

Is your inner life precious—or are you only decorating the outside?

The tabernacle shows us: God dwells where He is honored, not just invited.

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June 28 – July 05, 2025

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING

Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 14

Destruction of Sodom

Read online here

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Introduction

Sodom was beautiful, wealthy, and cultured—yet it was lost in guilt, sin, and ultimately in God’s judgment.
The story of Lot and the destruction of Sodom is more than a historical event.
It is a warning, an invitation, and a mirror for our own time.
Amid prosperity, pleasure, and religious indifference, we still hear God’s voice today:

“Flee for your life! Don’t look back.” (Genesis 19:17)

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Commentary

1. The Allure of Sodom – Outward Wealth, Inward Decay

Sodom was “like the garden of the Lord” (Genesis 13:10)—fertile, beautiful, and convenient. But:

• Abundance led to pride.

• Idleness corrupted character.

• Wealth fueled selfishness and moral decay.

Sodom was prosperous—but spiritually dead.

2. God’s Warning – Grace Before Judgment

God sent angels to rescue Lot.
Lot was righteous, but hesitant.
His family was attached to comfort and possessions.

God’s grace is real—but it has a window of opportunity.

3. Lot’s Wife – A Heart in Sodom

She was on the path of rescue, but her heart looked back.
One last glance cost her life.

It’s not about where your feet are—but where your heart is.

4. The Consequences of Wrong Choices

Lot’s descendants (the Moabites and Ammonites) became enemies of God.
One wrong step led generations into ruin.

Personal decisions can have consequences that span generations.

5. The Contrast: Abraham and Lot

Abraham lived by faith as a stranger and pilgrim.
Lot sought comfort—and nearly lost everything.

Faith chooses what is eternal, even when it is hard today.

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Summary

The downfall of Sodom is:

• a testimony to God’s patience—but also His justice,

• a mirror of today’s moral condition,

• a call to repentance,

• a reminder: wealth without God is dangerous,

• a warning: do not delay when God calls!

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Message for Us Today

We live in a world like Sodom—marked by prosperity, selfishness, and moral relativism.
God’s grace still calls today—not to condemn, but to save.
Don’t delay when God calls—the time of grace is limited.
Your choices affect your family, your descendants, and your eternity.
Seek the better homeland—the city whose builder and maker is God.

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Reflection Question

Where is my “Sodom”? Where do I choose comfort over obedience?
Do I hesitate like Lot—even though I know God’s voice?
Is my heart more attached to possessions, career, and security—or to God’s will?
Do I live like Abraham—a guest in this world, waiting for the heavenly?

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/01-07-2025-exodus-chapter-26-believe-his-prophets/