The Beautiful Practice of Active Belief
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We often treat faith like a quiet internal feeling. We tuck it away in our hearts and hope it stays there to comfort us. But I have found that belief is not a static state of mind. It is a posture of the soul. True belief is not about turning inward to analyze our own shadows. It is about looking up at the Creator and looking around at the neighbors He has given us.
When we wake up each morning, we have a choice. We can enter the day as if everything depends on our own strength, or we can step out with the conviction that God is already at work.
Scripture tells us that God is always active.
Jesus said, "My Father is always at work to this very day, and I too am working" (John 5:17 NIV).
Our job is not to create the work. Our job is to notice where He is moving and join Him there.
Offering the Ordinary
Belief is an active offering. It is the simple prayer that says, “Lord, this day is Yours.” We do not offer our day because we have it all figured out. We offer it because we trust that He does. This one decision changes the way we walk through the hours. When we believe God is present, we pay better attention. We listen more intently to the person across the table. We respond with grace rather than react in frustration.
Living this way turns the ordinary into something holy. It reminds me of the exhortation in Romans:
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship" (Romans 12:1 NIV).
Worship is found in the “yes” we give to the tasks right in front of us.
- Bold seasons: Sometimes God asks us to step into hard places or use our voices for those who cannot.
- Quiet seasons: Sometimes the “yes” is found in the faithfulness of a laundry pile or a quiet conversation.
- Simple seasons: Most days require the humble courage to just show up and love well.
The Cost of Staying Safe
It is tempting to stay where we feel comfortable. We like the safety of the shore. Yet, I have noticed that staying where we feel safe often costs us more than stepping forward in faith. When we let fear drive our routines, our hope begins to drain away. Faith is like a muscle. It grows when it is practiced, not when it is analyzed.
When we choose to step forward, even with trembling knees, we give others permission to do the same. Your quiet faith has an impact. It serves as a living reminder that God is not distant. He is involved in the very details of our lives.
As Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see" (NIV).
We do not need to see the whole path to take the next step.
Trusting God with Today
Belief is not about mastering the future. We don’t need to have a five year plan to be faithful today. When we offer the day to Him, the anxiety about outcomes begins to lift. We become less worried about how we look and more attentive to how we can serve.
Every ordinary day holds the possibility of holy purpose because God is in it. My story is not a list of things I have done. It is a record of moments when I noticed what God was doing and chose to participate. Today matters because God is present. He is already moving. He is already loving. He is already redeeming.
Let’s step forward and join Him.
In my book, Walk It Out, I share how to step past the safety of a busy life—packed with family, friends, and service—and into the wild, fulfilling adventure of truly following God.
If you are tired of feeling empty despite a full calendar, it’s time to stop focusing on your own plans and start walking out God’s specific mandates for you.
Bridge the Gap Between “Then” and “Now”
We often read the Bible and wonder, “Okay, but what does this mean for me today? How do I actually apply this to my marriage, my parenting, or my work?”
If you are ready to move from simply reading Scripture to truly walking it out, the Life Application Study Bible is the tool you need. It is the #1 selling study Bible for a reason: it doesn’t just explain the history; it explains the heart.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
February 9
Exodus 25-28
Building God’s Dwelling Place
Proverbs 1:7 reminds us that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
As we delve into the book of Exodus over the next several days, we find God imparting His wisdom and instruction to Moses to construct a holy sanctuary—a dwelling place for Him among His people.
God’s meticulous plans for this sanctuary reflect His nature as a detailed and orderly God. He desires perfection because this is where He will meet with Moses and His people, and He is a holy God. From offerings for the Tabernacle to the plans for the Ark of the Covenant, Table, and Lampstand, every detail matters.
The construction of the Tabernacle and Altar of Burnt Offering follows God’s instructions closely. His people are asked to follow these divine guidelines, just as He communicated them to Moses on the mountain.
As we read about the plans for the Courtyard and Light for the Temple, we are reminded of the importance of paying close attention to detail and being specific in our measurements. The word “must” comes into play, emphasizing the significance of adhering to God’s instructions.
The clothing for the priests, along with the design of the ephod and chestpiece, further demonstrates God’s attention to detail. He instructs the use of two onyx stones engraved with the names of the tribes of Israel, signifying significance and a constant reminder that they are God’s chosen people.
One remarkable aspect of this reading is the concept of “sacred offerings.” God asked His people to provide gold, silver, linen, oil, wood, and more. These were once enslaved individuals, yet God fulfilled His promise to Abraham by allowing them to leave Egypt with great wealth.
This wealth was then used to build God’s holy tabernacle, a stark contrast to the symbols of worship for false gods that they left behind in Egypt—pyramids, statues, idols, and temples. God established worship for Himself, much like cathedrals were built in the Middle Ages to display God’s glory among an illiterate population.
Symbols abound in these pages, particularly in Exodus 27:20-21, where God commands the use of pure olive oil to keep the lamps burning continually.
This mirrors the words of Jesus in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life."
Word of the Day: Display
Definition: To make a prominent exhibition of something where it can be easily seen.
What was God displaying through these instructions? His glory.
Exodus’s sacred offerings and detailed instructions teach us that offerings to God should come from willing hearts, not mere obligations. It’s not about the type or amount of the gift; it’s about the condition of our hearts when we give. As 2 Corinthians 9:7 emphasizes, we should give cheerfully, for God loves a cheerful giver.
February 10
Exodus 29-31
Unveiling the Pattern
Have you ever felt like a very ordinary person caught up in a very big plan?
In Exodus 29:7, we read about the call on Aaron’s life: "Then anoint him by pouring the anointing oil over his head."
Aaron was, by all accounts, an ordinary man. He began as a mouthpiece for his brother Moses and was eventually transformed into a holy priest.
When we journey through the instructions for the Tabernacle, we see a fascinating pattern. Hebrew scholar Robert Alter describes these instructions as being arranged in “concentric circles.”
Think of it like ripples in a pond. It starts with the materials and the structure, moves into the inner sanctum and the altar, travels through the sacred vestments of the priests, and finally reaches the outer washbasins and the daily supplies. These circles lead us all the way to the holy rest of the Sabbath.
God Desires to Dwell with You
You might ask, “What does an ancient tent and some anointing oil have to do with my life today?”
The bigger picture is beautiful: God’s deepest desire is to dwell with His chosen people. Layer by layer, circle by circle, He makes a way for His presence to be near us. In Exodus 31, we see Him call Bezalel and Oholiab—two craftsmen—and fill them with His Spirit to build His sanctuary.
This tells us that God is personally involved in the details. He doesn’t just care about the “big” spiritual moments; He cares about the work of your hands and the space where you live.
Word of the Day: Anoint
Definition: To smear or rub with oil, typically as part of a religious ceremony; to dedicate to the service of God.
In the Old Testament, to anoint someone involved pouring oil abundantly to signify God’s grace and set-apart purpose. In the New Testament, we see the ultimate fulfillment of this through Jesus. Acts 10:38 tells us God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power.
But here is the most encouraging part for us today: 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 confirms that God has identified us as His own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts.
We are no longer standing on the outside of those concentric circles. Because of Christ, we have become a “Kingdom of priests” (Revelation 1:6). The anointing isn’t just for people in the Bible; it is the gift of the Holy Spirit dwelling within you right now, guaranteeing every promise God has made to you.
Walking in the Pattern of Peace
Whether you are folding laundry, leading a meeting, or navigating a difficult season, remember that God’s plan is intricate and intentional. He is moving in the circles of your life, inviting you deeper into His presence. You are marked by His grace, empowered by His Spirit, and never—ever—alone.
Reflection Questions
- How does the truth that you are part of a “Kingdom of priests” change the way you see your value today?
2. When you look at the “circles” of your life (home, work, community), where do you see God’s hand most clearly right now?
3. Aaron and the craftsmen were ordinary people with a divine calling. What “ordinary” part of your day do you want to invite God’s Spirit to anoint?
February 11
Exodus 32-34
The Golden Calf and God’s Unwavering Faithfulness
As we look at the events in Exodus 32, 33, and 34, we find ourselves in the middle of a spiritual rollercoaster. While Moses was on the mountain receiving God’s instructions, the Israelites grew restless. They turned to Aaron and demanded gods to lead them, resulting in a tale of disobedience, idolatry, and—eventually—God’s overwhelming compassion.
The Danger of Impatience
Aaron, tasked with appeasing the impatient crowd, fashioned a golden calf from their jewelry—a grievous violation of God’s commandments. This act of idol worship provoked God’s anger, yet we see the power of intercession as Moses pleaded for the people, reminding God of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Remarkably, God relented, sparing His people from destruction.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of our own tendency to stray when we feel God is “delayed.” Even with the memory of the Red Sea parting, the people stumbled when they stopped looking at the Provider and started looking at their own timing.
Reassurance in the Midst of Failure
Despite the people’s failure and the shattering of the original stone tablets, God’s heart for His people didn’t change. Moses pleaded with God on multiple occasions, revealing a deep desire to understand God’s ways more fully. In a beautiful moment of intimacy, God declared, “I know you by name,” emphasizing that our relationship with Him is personal, not just a set of rules.
God’s compassion shines through the darkest moments. He provided a second set of tablets and reiterated the importance of the Israelites being set apart. He didn’t abandon them to their sin; He provided a way back.
Word of the Day: Must
Definition: To be obliged to; should (expressed of an internal or external necessity).
In Exodus 34, we see this word take on deep significance. God emphasized the word must eleven times in His instructions to the Israelites. This wasn’t to be a burden, but a boundary of protection. For a people who had just wandered into idolatry, these musts were the guardrails that kept them on the path toward holiness. It highlights the necessity of obedience—not as a way to earn God’s love, but as a response to it.
Personal Reflections: Radiant Transformation
Reflecting on these events, I’m struck by Moses’ radiant face after spending time in God’s presence. It reminds me of the seasons in my own life where the “mountaintop” felt far away, yet God was still speaking. When we spend time with Him, it transforms us.
In Acts 4:13, we see a similar impact when Peter and John, who were unschooled and ordinary men, were recognized as those who had “been with Jesus.” People notice when the light of the Lord is reflected in our lives.
The Promise of Divine Presence
In Exodus 34:6-8, God declares Himself as “merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” These aren’t just words; they are the character of the God who seeks to dwell with us. His glory is not limited to moments of divine visitation; His presence is meant to be a constant in our lives. Despite our shortcomings, God still seeks to abide with us.
As we journey through Exodus, may we strive to understand God’s ways, intercede for one another, and allow His presence to transform us. Let us be like Moses, shining with the radiance of God’s glory, and boldly proclaim what the Lord has done in our lives.
February 12
Exodus 35-36
The Joy of Giving
As we dive into Exodus 35 and 36, we encounter familiar themes wrapped in profound truths. The narrative begins with a repeated emphasis on the Sabbath – a theme that resonates throughout these chapters. This repetition isn’t mere redundancy; it’s a call to reflect deeply on the essence of Sabbath. The phrase “A Holy Day Dedicated to the Lord” leaps out, reminding us that the Sabbath isn’t just about rest; it’s about acknowledging and celebrating God’s holiness.
The Spirit of Willingness and Generosity
The chapters revisit the offerings for the Tabernacle, a topic we’ve already seen. But there’s something different this time: the actualization of God’s instructions. Exodus 35:21 beautifully captures this spirit: “All those whose hearts were stirred and whose spirits were moved came and brought their sacred offerings to the Lord…” This isn’t just about obedience but a heartfelt response to God’s call.
The insights from EnduringWord shed light on this aspect: the offerings were not a result of clever fundraising but a genuine response to God’s command. It’s a reminder that God’s work is often funded through His people’s voluntary and heartfelt gifts. This reflects a deep truth: we’re not just called to be obedient but to be giving – both in material and service.
The Joy in Serving
The narrative takes a beautiful turn when we read about Bezalel and Oholiab, who were “eager to get to work.” Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s a testament to the joy found in serving God. Their eagerness, combined with the overwhelming generosity of the people, leads to a heartwarming moment where the craftsmen tell Moses, “The people have given more than enough…”
This generosity and eagerness to serve were even more remarkable considering their circumstances. They crafted linens and built golden frames, not in ideal conditions, but in the desert. It’s a powerful reminder that serving God isn’t contingent on perfect conditions.
Lessons Beyond the Tabernacle
As we ponder over these chapters, a few thoughts stand out. Firstly, the formation of a team – skilled, eager, both men and women, working in unison for a divine purpose. Secondly, the attention to detail – the command to do things “exactly” as instructed. These elements are not just about building a physical structure but about the precision and dedication required in God’s work.
Word of the Day: Crafted
Definition: To exercise skill in making (something).
This word sums up the essence of these chapters. It’s about skill, dedication, and purpose. God didn’t just want the Tabernacle built; He wanted it crafted by people equipped and called for this purpose.
A Personal Reflection
This brings us to a poignant question: If you could do anything and know it would succeed, what would it be? This question isn’t just about personal ambition; it’s about discovering our God-given purpose. Often, we focus on what’s wrong or wait for the perfect timing. But, perhaps, God is calling us to serve in the midst of our struggles and imperfections.
A Call to Serve in Unity and Skill
Exodus 35 and 36 don’t just narrate the construction of a Tabernacle; they invite us into a journey of rediscovering the holiness of Sabbath, the joy of giving, and the fulfillment in serving. They call us to be part of a skilled, cohesive unit, working for the Lord. It’s a reminder that in God’s kingdom, every effort, every skill, and every heart counts.
February 13
Exodus 37-39
A Glimpse of the Heavenly
In the heart of the Exodus narrative, we find a fascinating story of craftsmanship and symbolism centered around the figure of Bezalel. His role in constructing various sacred items is a tale of religious obedience and a reflection of a deeper spiritual truth.
Bezalel: The Master Artisan in Exodus
Bezalel, mentioned for the third time in Exodus, emerges as a significant character. Exodus 38:27 tells us, “Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made everything just as the Lord commanded Moses.” This isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about bringing a divine vision into reality with meticulous skill.
Symbolism in Craftsmanship
The details of Bezalel’s work are rich in symbolism. For instance, the ephod with onyx stones set in gold, each stone engraved with the names of the Israelite tribes (Exodus 39:6), is a directive from God (Exodus 28), symbolizing God’s eternal connection with His people. This is mirrored in scriptures like Isaiah 49:16 (“I have engraved you on the palms of my hands”) and Revelation 2:17 (promising a white stone with a new name to the victorious).
The Sacred Medallion and the High Priest
Another exquisite piece crafted by Bezalel is the sacred medallion for Aaron’s turban, described in Exodus 39:30. Engraved with “HOLY TO THE LORD” and made of pure gold, it symbolizes the sanctity and consecration of the high priest to God’s service.
Word of the Day: Gold
Definition: A yellow precious metal used especially in jewelry and decoration, and used to guarantee the value of currencies.
The frequent use of gold in these items is significant. Gold, derived from the Indo-European “ghel” (meaning yellow), is unique in its color and malleability. Its presence in the Tabernacle provides a glimpse of the divine, echoing God’s command in Exodus 25:8-9 to build a sanctuary reflecting heavenly patterns. This connection is further highlighted in Hebrews 8:5 and the depiction of golden streets in Revelation 21:21.
The Greater Narrative: Christ as the Ultimate High Priest
Reflecting on these chapters, especially through the lens of the book of Hebrews, we understand that these Old Testament figures and symbols point to a greater reality. Christ is depicted as the ultimate High Priest, surpassing Moses, Abraham, and Melchizedek. The craftsmanship of the Tabernacle and its intricate details are not just historical artifacts but representations of Christ’s eternal priesthood and the heavenly dwelling place God has prepared for us.
A Story of Redemption and Eternal Hope
Studying Exodus, especially through the intricacies of the Tabernacle’s construction, we are reminded of the grand narrative of redemption and hope. Every gold thread, every engraved stone, and every crafted item speaks of a deeper spiritual truth – a reminder of God’s eternal presence and the ultimate fulfillment in Christ as our High Priest.
In exploring these ‘weeds’ of the Old Testament, we realize we’re not just uncovering ancient history but discovering the layers of an incredible story God is writing, a story that culminates in the eternal dwelling place He has prepared for us.
February 14
Exodus 39-40, Numbers 9:15-23
Embracing Divine Direction
In a momentous chapter of the Israelites’ journey, the Tabernacle stands completed, marking not just the culmination of a grand project but also symbolizing the profound relationship between God and His people. The completion of the Tabernacle, as detailed in Exodus and Numbers, resonates with lessons of guidance, obedience, and divine presence.
The Final Touches and the Divine Presence
The Israelites, under Moses’ leadership, meticulously followed God’s commands in building the Tabernacle. From setting up the structure on the first day of the new year, two years after the Exodus, to placing the ark, the table for the bread of the Presence, and the lampstand – every detail was attended to with reverence.
The altar of burnt offerings, the washbasin, the courtyard, and the veil – each element was put in place as per God’s instructions. When Moses finished the work, something miraculous occurred: God’s glory filled the Tabernacle, a powerful manifestation that even prevented Moses from entering.
Guided by the Cloud
The completion of the Tabernacle marks the beginning of a new phase of guidance. The cloud over the Tabernacle and the fire within it at night became the physical representation of God’s guidance. As described in Exodus 40:38 and echoed in Numbers 9, this divine phenomenon directed the Israelites’ journey. They traveled and camped according to the movement of the cloud, a tangible symbol of God’s presence and direction.
Word of the Day: Guide
Definition: To show or indicate the way to (someone).
This historic accomplishment was not just about constructing a physical structure; it was about adhering to divine guidance. The feeling of accomplishment for Moses and the Israelites was immense. They had undertaken a massive project for God, complete with precise measurements and specifications, and saw it through to completion.
The word of the day, “Guide,” encapsulates this narrative. God not only guided Moses and the Israelites in building the Tabernacle but also in their subsequent journey. The movement of the cloud was a constant reminder of their reliance on God’s direction.
Applying the Lessons Today
While we may not be called to build a physical tabernacle, the principle of divine guidance remains relevant. The Bible provides instructions on how to live – from loving others to caring for the vulnerable. In my book “Walk It Out,” I emphasize the importance of not just reading God’s Word but doing what it says. This is where we find joy and purpose.
It’s not about deciphering our future but trusting that God is directing our paths. Even when the path doesn’t make sense, we can look back over the years and see God’s guidance.
The story of the Tabernacle’s completion is a powerful reminder of the importance of following God’s guidance. As we navigate our journeys, let’s seek to listen and obey, trusting that God guides us every step, just as He did with Moses and the Israelites.
February 15
Numbers 7
Diligence in the Desert
In the heart of the wilderness, amidst the dust and the divine, the Israelites marked a significant occasion. It was a time of offerings and dedication, a grand celebration where each tribe, starting with Judah, presented their gifts over two weeks. Imagine the air thick with excitement and reverence as each tribe brought forth their offerings.
A Cascade of Offerings
The offerings were elaborate and symbolic. Nahshon son of Amminadab from the tribe of Judah set the tone with his generous gifts: a silver platter, a basin filled with grain offerings, a gold container with incense, and animals for various offerings. The list continues, with each tribe – Issachar, Zebulun, Reuben, and others – bringing their unique contributions.
The Practicalities of a Nomadic Sanctuary
Any building project demands effort, more so in a desert. But this was no ordinary construction; it was the Tabernacle, a mobile dwelling place for the Divine. As God directed, the Israelites would set up the Tabernacle, stay as long as commanded, and then pack up and move. This required not just spiritual dedication but also logistical precision.
The Role of the Levites
In this narrative, we encounter an intriguing detail in Numbers 7:7, “Moses took the wagons and oxen and presented them to the Levites.” This allocation of resources was vital for the movement of the Tabernacle. The Gershonites and the Merarites each received what they needed to accomplish their tasks. These divisions among the Levites – including the Kohathites and the Aaronites – represent a well-organized system of service.
Faithfulness Across Generations
What stood out strikingly in this narrative was the recurring theme of “The son of …” This wasn’t just about lineage but faithfulness. These sons fulfilled promises made to their ancestors, embodying the faithfulness of God to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It was also a testament to Moses’ faithfulness, as he regularly met with God in the Tabernacle.
The Word of the Day: Diligence
Definition: Careful and persistent work or effort.
The tribes showed diligence in bringing their offerings, and Moses exemplified it in his regular communion with God. Diligence isn’t just about big gestures; it’s found in the daily, sometimes challenging, acts of devotion and service.
The Importance of Being Diligent
I think about the diligence of those in our community, those who try to connect with God daily, despite the chaos of life. From waking up at odd hours, finding quiet time with God, and persistently attending church even when things don’t go as planned. Your diligence, in whatever form it takes, is a beacon of faith.
The Legacy of Faithfulness
As we close this chapter, we reflect on Moses’ leadership and the impact of our examples on others. The passage in Numbers 7:89 reminds us of Moses’ intimate conversations with God, setting a precedent for future generations. It’s an honor to be an example, to teach and guide, just as Moses did.
Ultimately, it’s about the legacy we leave, not just in grand achievements but in the quiet, diligent steps we take in our faith journey. Sometimes, promises are fulfilled beyond our sight, but our role is to remain faithful and diligent, inspiring future generations.
