Exodus:40

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* Verse 1-15 - When a new year begins , we should seek to serve God better than the year before . In half a year the tabernacle was completed . When the hearts of numbers are earnest in a good cause , much may be done in a short time ; and when the commandments of God are continually attended to , as the rule of working , all will be done well . The high-priesthood was in the family of Aaron till Christ came , and in Him , the substance of all these shadows , it continues for ever . * Verse 16-33 - When the tabernacle and the furniture of it were prepared , they did not put off rearing it till they came to Canaan ; but , in obedience to the will of God , they set it up in the midst of their camp . Those who are unsettled in the world , must not think that this will excuse want of religion ; as if it were enough to begin to serve God when they begin to be settled in the world . No ; a tabernacle for God is very needful , even in a wilderness , especially as we may be in another world before we come to fix in this . And we may justly fear lest we should deceive ourselves with a form of godliness . The thought that so few entered Canaan , should warn young persons especially , not to put off the care of their souls . * Verse 34-38 - The cloud covered the tabernacle even in the clearest day ; it was not a cloud which the sun scatters . This cloud was a token of God 's presence to be seen day and night , by all Israel , that they might never again question , Is the Lord among us , or is he not ? It guided the camp of Israel through the wilderness . While the cloud rested on the tabernacle , they rested ; when it removed , they followed it . The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle . In light and fire the Shechinah made itself visible : God is Light ; our God is a consuming Fire . Yet so dazzling was the light , and so dreadful the fire , that Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation , till the splendour was abated . But what Moses could not do , our Lord Jesus has done , whom God caused to draw near ; and who has invited us to come boldly , even to the mercy-seat . Being taught by the Holy Spirit to follow the example of Christ , as well as to depend upon him , to attend his ordinances , and obey his precepts , we shall be kept from losing our way , and be led in the midst of the paths of judgment , till we come to heaven , the habitation of his holiness . BLESSED BE GOD FOR JESUS CHRIST ! **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary ****

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