That They May Know Him
The Bible in a Year
“They shall know that I am the Lord their God, that brought them forth out of the land of Egypt, that I may dwell among them: I am the Lord their God.”
Exodus 29:46
As we move steadily through the Scriptures together, Exodus 29:46 invites us to pause and consider a single verse that gathers together the heart of God’s redemptive intent. These words come at the conclusion of detailed instructions concerning the Tabernacle and the consecration of Israel’s priests. After the measurements, rituals, garments, and sacrifices, God reminds His people why all of this exists. The structure is not the point. The priesthood is not the end. The purpose is relational: “They shall know that I am the Lord their God.” Before God speaks of dwelling among them, He speaks of being known by them.
The knowledge described here is not mere information. In Hebrew thought, to “know” (yadaʿ) implies relational familiarity born of lived experience. God’s purpose in redeeming Israel was not simply to form a nation or establish religious order, but to make Himself known to them as their God. This challenges the way many of us approach faith today. We often settle for knowing about God—His attributes, His actions, His commands—while neglecting the deeper pursuit of knowing Him. A.W. Tozer once observed, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” Scripture presses us further: it is not only what we think about God, but whether we truly know Him, that shapes faithful living.
God’s purpose is inseparable from His power. The verse continues, “that brought them forth out of the land of Egypt.” Israel’s knowledge of God was grounded in history, not abstraction. They knew Him as Deliverer before they knew Him as Indweller. The plagues, the Passover, the crossing of the Red Sea—these were not isolated miracles but revelations of divine power directed toward salvation. At the same time, that same power brought judgment upon Egypt. God’s might was displayed both in rescuing His people and in confronting hardened resistance. As Scripture repeatedly reminds us, “The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is His name” (Exodus 15:3, italics mine). Power is not an optional attribute of God; it is essential to His identity and to our understanding of redemption.
This balance between salvation and judgment remains instructive. Modern faith often emphasizes God’s saving power while quietly minimizing His authority to judge. Yet Exodus will not allow such division. The God who saves is also the God who rules. His power does not fluctuate according to human preference. For the believer, this is not a threat but a reassurance. The same power that once broke the grip of Egypt is at work to redeem, correct, and sustain God’s people today. Knowing God means trusting that His power is both purposeful and righteous.
The verse then reaches its most astonishing declaration: “that I may dwell among them.” God’s presence is not assumed; it is given by grace. Israel had proven repeatedly that they were a stiff-necked and rebellious people. Still, God desired to dwell in their midst. The Tabernacle was not a reward for obedience but a testimony to mercy. Moses understood this better than most. When faced with the possibility of entering the Promised Land without God’s presence, he pleaded, “If Your presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here” (Exodus 33:15, italics mine). For Moses, the presence of God mattered more than progress, security, or success.
That same question confronts us today. Do we value God’s presence more than outcomes? Do we desire Him, or merely what He provides? God’s dwelling among His people foreshadows the greater reality fulfilled in Christ. John declares, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14, italics mine). The God who once filled the Tabernacle with glory has chosen to make His home among us through His Son and by His Spirit. This presence is still an act of grace, not entitlement.
Finally, the verse closes with a reaffirmation of God’s person: “I am the Lord their God.” The name “LORD,” rendered in all capital letters, signifies YHWH—Jehovah, the covenant God revealed to Moses as “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14). This declaration draws a clear line of distinction. Israel’s God was not one among many; He was wholly other, self-existent, and faithful. Any alternative deity was a distortion by comparison. As Walter Brueggemann notes, “The claim of YHWH is exclusive not because of insecurity, but because of truth.” To know God rightly is to reject lesser substitutes that cannot save, sustain, or dwell with us.
As we journey through the Bible this year, Exodus 29:46 reminds us what Scripture ultimately seeks to do. It reveals God’s purpose, displays His power, invites us into His presence, and grounds us in His person. The Bible is not merely a record of religious development; it is a testimony to a God who desires to be known. Our task is not to rush past that invitation, but to respond with reverent attention and faithful trust, allowing the knowledge of God to shape every other knowledge we pursue.
For further reflection on God’s presence dwelling among His people, see this article from Ligonier Ministries:
https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/god-dwelling-with-his-people
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Faith Over Fear: Daily Steps to Trust God in Tough Times
744 words, 4 minutes read time.
The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1, NIV)
Introduction
When tough times come, it’s easy to get caught up in fear and uncertainty. But as Christians, we have a greater option available to us: trusting God in the midst of chaos.
In Psalm 27, David expresses his trust in God as his light, salvation, and stronghold. He asks who he should fear with such confidence in our Lord. As believers, we can do the same.
Insights into Fear
Fear is a natural human response to uncertainty and danger. However, when we let fear take hold, it can lead us down a path of doubt and despair. In 1 John 4:18, we’re reminded that God does not give us evil things to suffer, but rather gives us strength and hope in the midst of trial.
When we focus on our fears rather than our faith, we open ourselves up to feelings of inadequacy and powerlessness. But when we fix our eyes on Jesus, we discover a different narrative – one of courage, resilience, and victory over fear.
Practical Applications
So how can we cultivate trust in God when the world around us seems dark and uncertain? Here are a few practical steps to consider:
Practice Spiritual Discernment
As believers, we have access to spiritual discernment through the Holy Spirit. When faced with fear or uncertainty, take time to pray and seek God’s guidance. Ask Him to reveal His truth in your situation, and trust that He is working everything out for your good (Romans 8:28).
Focus on God’s Presence
When we focus on our fears rather than our faith, we can lose sight of God’s presence in our lives. Take time to reflect on the promises of Scripture and remember that you are never alone. God is with you, even when it feels like He’s not (Deuteronomy 31:6).
Surround Yourself with Believers
When we surround ourselves with people who share our faith, we’re reminded that we’re not alone in this journey. Seek out community and connection with fellow believers – it can be a powerful antidote to fear and uncertainty.
Reflection / Challenge
Prayer / Closing
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being my light and salvation in the darkest of times. Help me to trust You more deeply today, even when fear tries to creep in. Surround me with Your presence and remind me that I am never alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Call to Action
If this devotional encouraged you, don’t just scroll on. Subscribe for more devotionals, share a comment about what God is teaching you, or reach out and tell me what you’re reflecting on today. Let’s grow in faith together.
Sources
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.
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Unshaken: A Man’s Journey to Unwavering Faith in a Turbulent World
744 words, 4 minutes read time.
The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1, NIV)
Introduction
Living in a world filled with uncertainty and chaos can leave even the most devoted believers feeling shaken. It’s easy to lose sight of our faith when faced with the unknowns of life. But what if we told you that it’s possible to walk through life with unwavering confidence, no matter the storm? In this devotional, we’ll explore how to cultivate an unshakeable faith in a turbulent world.
Unwavering Faith: The Foundation of a Life Well-Lived
Psalm 27:1 reminds us that God is our light and salvation. But what does it mean to be saved? Is it just about avoiding sin, or is it something more profound? According to the psalmist, being saved means finding strength in our Lord. It’s a declaration of trust that says, “I will not be afraid because You are with me.”
When we put our faith in God, we’re not just relying on His power; we’re also surrendering our own self-reliance. We acknowledge that we can’t fix everything on our own and that we need a higher authority to guide us through life’s challenges.
Practical Applications
A practical way to cultivate this unshakeable faith is to practice gratitude. When faced with uncertainty, take time to reflect on the good things in your life. Focus on God’s promises and His character. Write down three things you’re thankful for each day, and watch how your perspective shifts.
Another key aspect of unwavering faith is vulnerability. It takes courage to admit when we’re scared or unsure. But by sharing our struggles with trusted friends, family, or a spiritual mentor, we can begin to see that we’re not alone. We can learn from others who have walked through similar experiences and find comfort in their stories.
Real-Life Relevance
Unwavering faith isn’t just about abstract concepts; it’s also about living out our faith in the midst of real-life challenges. When faced with a difficult decision, ask yourself: “What would my faith look like if I chose to trust God?” or “How can I apply God’s Word to this situation?”
Unwavering faith is not about being fearless; it’s about facing our fears head-on while trusting in God’s goodness. It’s about recognizing that our lives are not our own, but rather a reflection of God’s character. As we walk through life with unwavering confidence, we’ll find that our relationships, work, and even our daily routines become more meaningful and purposeful.
Reflection / Challenge
Prayer / Closing
This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
(Psalm 118:24, NIV)
Dear Heavenly Father, today I ask that You would help me to see my life through Your eyes. Give me courage to trust You even when I’m scared or unsure. Help me to surrender my own strength and rely on Your power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Call to Action
If this devotional encouraged you, don’t just scroll on. Subscribe for more devotionals, share a comment about what God is teaching you, or reach out and tell me what you’re reflecting on today. Let’s grow in faith together.
Sources
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.
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Praise the Lord
SpiritualKhazaana
Intentional Faith
Bryan King
think and grow