Day 9: Glory in the Camp

Dr. John W. Mulinde
Jul 8
3 min read

Today’s Reading: Exodus 31–40 (NKJV)

Wednesday, 9th July 2025

You’ve Come So Far—Keep Building!

To everyone who’s stayed on this journey from Day 1—you’ve now completed 90 chapters of God’s Word! You’ve read through the creation story, the calling of Abraham, the rise of Joseph, and the mighty hand of God in Egypt. Now, we arrive at a holy moment in Israel’s story—the presence of God comes to dwell with His people.

If the previous chapters were about deliverance, these are about dwelling. Stay focused. God is building a people for Himself—and you’re part of that story.

Reading Instructions

Read Exodus chapters 31 to 40 slowly and reverently. These final chapters unveil God’s plan to dwell not just around, but among His people. Notice the craftsmanship, the obedience, the failure (golden calf), and the glorious return of God's presence. It’s a sacred transition.

You’re welcome to share your reflections in the Bible Marathon WhatsApp Group. Your testimony strengthens others.

Guided Devotional

1. Who is God?

In Exodus 31–40, we encounter God as:

The Spirit-Giver – He fills Bezalel and artisans with wisdom, understanding, and skill to build the tabernacle (Exodus 31:1–6).
The Covenant Maker – He commands Sabbath as a sign of the covenant (Exodus 31:13).
The Righteous Judge – When Israel builds the golden calf, God responds in holy anger (Exodus 32).
The Merciful Redeemer – In response to Moses’ intercession, God renews the covenant (Exodus 34:10).
The Indwelling Glory – When the tabernacle is finished, God’s glory visibly fills the tent (Exodus 40:34–38).

2. What Are the Ways of God?

God fills people with His Spirit for practical work – Not just preachers, but builders and craftsmen are anointed.
God establishes covenant rhythms – Like Sabbath rest, to keep His people aligned with Him.
God calls for full obedience – “Just as the Lord commanded” appears repeatedly, showing the value of precision in God’s presence.
God offers second chances – Even after Israel’s sin, He renews relationship.
God honors what’s built according to His pattern – When the tabernacle is completed His way, His glory comes.

3. What Is His Character?

Holy – His presence cannot dwell where sin reigns unchecked.
Just – He confronts idolatry but never without purpose.
Merciful – He listens when Moses intercedes and offers renewal.
Detailed – Every instruction about worship has divine meaning.
Present – He doesn’t want to just visit—He wants to stay.

Golden Nugget

God’s presence doesn’t fill our ideas—it fills what we build according to His instructions.

Prayer

Lord of Glory, Thank You for being patient when I fall and merciful when I turn back to You. Help me build my life with obedience and excellence—according to Your Word, not just my own desires. May my heart become a holy place where Your presence feels welcome every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Activation Challenge

What area of your life is God calling you to rebuild with obedience and care?
Where have you settled for substitutes instead of God's presence?
How can you begin to build your “tabernacle” daily—a place where God’s presence dwells?

Next Reading: Day 10 – Leviticus 1–10

The journey continues into Leviticus—a book of worship, holiness, and approach. God is drawing a people closer. Don’t skip this—what seems hard at first reveals God’s burning heart for closeness with His people.