God wants to live near you

Read: Exodus 25:1-9 (NLT)

"Have the people of Israel build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them." Exodus 25:8

God came close first. Israel was in the desert. They had no home and no land. They grumbled often. Soon they would make a golden calf. Still, God said, "I want to live with you."

Love starts with God. Israel did not ask for a tent. God planned it. He gave every detail, down to the poles and the curtains.

Holy and near. God is pure and perfect. That is why the tent had rules. But the point of the rules was not to keep people away. It was to make a way for them to come close.

What we learn:

• God: He is holy, and he wants to be near.
• People: We do not build the way to God. He does.
• Circumstances: God met Israel in a hard, empty place.

Heart questions:

1. Do you picture God as far away or close by? Why?
2. Where is your "desert" right now? What would it mean for God to meet you there?
3. Do you want God near you, or do you only want his help?

Pray: Lord, you came close when I could not come to you. Thank you for wanting to be near me. Help me want you more than what you give. Amen.

Go deeper: God shows Moses His dwelling place and requirements for holy use (Exodus 25-31)