Exodus 37: The Holy Furnishings

Key Verse: Exodus 37:1"Bezalel made the ark of acacia wood. Two cubits and a half was its length, a cubit and a half its breadth, and a cubit and a half its height."

The work of the Tabernacle has begun.

God has given specific instructions for how His dwelling place must be built, and now Bezalel and the craftsmen bring it to life. Every piece is carefully designed, made from the finest materials, and crafted for the glory of God.

Each item is more than just furniture—it symbolizes God’s presence, provision, and holiness.

The Ark of the Covenant

The most sacred object in the Tabernacle is the Ark of the Covenant.

Bezalel makes it from acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold, inside and out. On top, he places the mercy seat, with two golden cherubim facing each other, their wings stretched out.

This is God’s throne on earth. It will sit inside the Most Holy Place, behind the veil, where His presence will dwell.

"There I will meet with you… I will speak with you from above the mercy seat." (Exodus 25:22)

Israel does not serve a distant God—He is near, dwelling among them.

The Table for the Bread of the Presence

Next, Bezalel builds the table for the Bread of the Presence.

This table will hold twelve loaves of bread, one for each tribe of Israel. It is a reminder that God is their provider, their sustainer.

Every week, the bread will be replaced—but God’s presence never leaves.

The Golden Lampstand

Then, Bezalel crafts the lampstand (Menorah).

It is made from pure gold, hammered into shape, with seven branches decorated with almond blossoms.

The priests will keep it burning continually, a symbol of God’s eternal light in the darkness.

"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12)

The Altar of Incense

Finally, Bezalel builds the Altar of Incense.

This small, golden altar will stand just outside the Most Holy Place. Every morning and evening, fragrant incense will rise before the Lord, symbolizing the prayers of the people.

"Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice!" (Psalm 141:2)

Jesus: The Fulfillment of the Tabernacle

Every piece of the Tabernacle points to Jesus.

• The Ark – Jesus is the presence of God among us.

• The Bread – Jesus is the Bread of Life, our sustainer.

• The Lampstand – Jesus is the Light of the World.

• The Incense – Jesus intercedes for us, bringing our prayers to the Father.

A Lesson for Us

God’s presence was central to Israel’s worship.

• Are we seeking His presence daily?

• Are we trusting Him as our provider?

• Are we shining His light in the world?

• Are we lifting our prayers to Him continually?

The Tabernacle was a place where God dwelled with His people. Now, through Jesus, we are His dwelling place.

Are we living as people filled with His presence?