Day 25, or January 25. Follow the Maker's instructions and timetable. Our thoughts today
are rooted in Exodus chapter 21 verse 1. These are the laws you are to set before them.
First, the big picture of this passage surrounding the verse. The first half of Exodus, with
its straightforward storyline, is quite different to the second half, which is full of detailed
regulations and instructions. There are lots of detail about how to build a tabernacle,
which will be the portable place of worship for the children of Israel until the temple
is built many years later. Moses expands the Ten Commandments into more detailed regulations
that form a foundation for Judaism. The first subject covered is an early form of human
rights law, which includes both personal and social responsibilities. It seems to confirm
that there is nothing new under the sun. In the midst of all these rules, little do the
Israelites suspect at this time that the short journey will take them forty years, as they
take a detour through the wilderness, following their refusal to obey what God says. Finally,
the covenant between God and His people is confirmed, as Moses and the other leaders
gather before God at Mount Sinai.
And now our action step for today. As the children of Israel anticipate entering the
Promised Land, God makes it very clear that it will take time and effort and patient trust
in God's timing. I will drive them out a little at a time until your population has
increased enough to take possession of the land, God tells them in chapter 23 verse 30.
In a world of instant this and instant that, we often find ourselves expecting an instant
God. If something takes a few seconds, we immediately wonder what the holdup is. Patience
is a virtue, that is certainly true, and I would love to have lots of patience. But I
need it now. I am sure there are things in your life today that if you were in charge
would be solved before your next meal. However, you're not in charge, so trust God who is.
Synchronize your timetable with His, or expect even more frustration ahead.