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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise David asked, “Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart” (Ps 24:3–4). I praise you today for the cleansing I have through the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Truly, I have received blessing and righteousness from the God of my salvation! (Ps 24:5). Today in Your Word Today you told me about your final instructions for building the Tabernacle. The golden altar of incense was designed to hold a censer of burning coals which was sprinkled with a specially prepared incense. As the incense burned, a thick cloud of smoke would curl upward filling the Tabernacle with a sweet smell. The incense symbolized the prayers of your people (cf. Rev 5:8; 8:3–4). This shows me how much you enjoy my prayers. They are like a fragrant aroma to you. The bronze washbasin was designed to hold the water that the priests used to cleanse themselves before they entered the Tabernacle. It had the practical use of washing the blood and dust from their hands and feet, and it emphasized the need for cleansing before coming into your presence. The washbasin symbolized the cleansing and sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. This shows me how important it is to be purified from the corruption of sin and to be set apart for your service. As a believer of the new covenant, I have been cleansed by “the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” (Tit 3:5). The census tax was used to provide for the ministry of the priests and Levites as they served in the Tabernacle. Every man over the age of 20 had to give half a shekel, no more and no less. The payment was a sanctioned substitute for their lives. This procedure reminded the people that they belonged to you, and they could ransom or redeem themselves only by paying what you deemed appropriate. This teaches me that my life is not my own. I belong to you, and I’m obligated by love and duty to follow your commands. Reflection You filled Bezalel and Oholiab with your Spirit so they could build the Tabernacle. This shows me that you value all the skills of your people, not merely the theological or ministerial skills. Request Father, you have called me to be holy as you are holy (1 Pet 1:15–16). Help me to resist the temptations of the enemy and to keep myself separated from sin unto you. Thanksgiving Thank you for the high and holy privilege of entering your presence in prayer! How wonderful it is to come boldly to the throne of grace to find mercy and help in time of need (Heb 4:16). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Sweet Hour of Prayer” by William W. Walford. Meditation Verse: Exodus 31:17.