Day 26

Preparations for Worship

Read: Exodus 29-31

These chapters are part of a section describing ways in which to prepare to worship God. The New Testament pays less attention to externals but continues to emphasize the importance of worship. God’s Word teaches not only that we must take time to worship but that we must do so with hearts prepared for this sacred event. Jesus said that those who worship God must worship him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). Are you doing that?

The high priest, the leader of worship, was ordained, or set aside for this sacred task, with an elaborate ceremony. While elaborate ceremonies are not required by New Testament teaching or example, certainly to set aside persons to lead in the worship of God is an important matter. Both the leader and the people should be impressed with the importance of what we are doing when we worship Almighty God.

But who among these Israelites in the wilderness had the skill to produce this beautiful tent and furnishings and garments? God’s Spirit filled certain persons, giving them the needed skills. The Bible teaches us that in a similar manner the Holy Spirit gives various abilities to each member of the church so that the work God has given us to do may be done well. God wants each of us to ask ourselves, “What gift or gifts has God given me?” and then to use those gifts for his glory.

PRAYER
Father, help us to worship regularly with hearts carefully prepared. In Jesus’ name. Amen.