Exodus 40: The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle

Key Verse: Exodus 40:34"Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle."

This is the moment everything has been leading to.

After months of preparation, the Tabernacle is finally complete. Every piece has been crafted according to God’s instructions. Now, it is time for His presence to dwell among His people.

Setting Up the Tabernacle

God commands Moses to set up the Tabernacle on the first day of the first month—a new beginning for Israel.

One by one, Moses puts everything in place:

• The Ark of the Covenant is placed inside the Most Holy Place.

• The Table of Bread, Lampstand, and Altar of Incense are arranged in the Holy Place.

• The Bronze Altar is set in the courtyard, where sacrifices will be offered.

• The Bronze Basin is filled with water for cleansing.

Moses does everything exactly as the Lord commands.

The Cloud and the Glory

Then, something incredible happens.

"Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle." (Exodus 40:34)

God’s presence—the very thing Israel longed for—descends and fills the Tabernacle.

The cloud by day and fire by night become signs of His guidance. Whenever the cloud moves, the Israelites break camp and follow. When it stays, they remain in place.

For the first time, God is truly dwelling among His people.

Jesus: God’s Presence With Us

The Tabernacle was a shadow of something greater.

• God’s presence filled the Tabernacle—Jesus is the fullness of God’s presence among us. (John 1:14)

• The cloud guided Israel—Jesus is our Good Shepherd, leading us in every step. (John 10:4)

• The Tabernacle was temporary—through Jesus, we are now the dwelling place of God. (1 Corinthians 3:16)

A Lesson for Us

• Are we following where God leads, or are we trying to move on our own?

• Are we preparing our hearts as a dwelling place for His presence?

• Are we trusting Jesus, our perfect Tabernacle, to guide us every day?

The book of Exodus began with slavery and ends with God’s glory.

The same is true for us—through Christ, we are led from bondage into His presence.

Are we walking in His glory?