Week 8: Day 40 - Exodus 30-31 - The Altar of Incense and the Gifted Craftsmen

📖 Scripture Reading: Exodus 30-31

In today's reading, God continues to provide detailed instructions for the tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the consecration of His people to serve Him. Exodus 30 and 31 highlight two key elements: the altar of incense and the appointment of skilled craftsmen to build the tabernacle, along with a reminder of the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant between God and His people.

The Altar of Incense (Exodus 30)

The altar of incense was to be placed in the holy place, just outside the Holy of Holies, where God's presence would dwell. The incense, which was to be burned on this altar daily, was a symbol of prayer and worship rising up to God. The sweet fragrance of the incense represented the prayers of God’s people, reaching God’s throne.

As moms, we can see how this points to the power of prayer in our lives. Just as the incense continually filled the tabernacle with its fragrance, our prayers should be consistent, filling our lives with worship and conversation with God. The altar of incense reminds us that God desires our prayers, our worship, and our daily dependence on Him. Even in the busyness of life, we are called to make time to offer our prayers to God, trusting that they are a sweet aroma to Him.

The Appointment of Skilled Craftsmen (Exodus 31)

God appointed Bezalel and Oholiab, two gifted craftsmen, to lead the construction of the tabernacle. He equipped them with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and the ability to carry out every detail of the work. This is a beautiful reminder that God has given each of us unique gifts and abilities for the building of His kingdom. Whether it’s through our work at home, in the community, or in the church, God has gifted us to fulfill His purpose.

God’s calling to these craftsmen wasn’t just about skill—it was about being set apart for a specific task that was holy and sacred. This reminds us that the work we do, whether big or small, when done for God’s glory, becomes holy work. As mothers, the tasks we undertake in raising our children, managing our homes, and serving others are all holy acts when offered up to God. No task is too small to be used for His kingdom.

The Sabbath: A Sign of the Covenant

In Exodus 31:12-17, God also stresses the importance of the Sabbath, which is a sign of the covenant between God and His people. The Sabbath was meant to be a day of rest, not only for physical renewal but for spiritual reflection and renewal. It was a day to remember that God is the Creator, and He alone is worthy of our worship and trust.

For us as mothers, the Sabbath serves as an important reminder to rest in God’s provision and to trust Him with the demands of our lives. Taking time to rest is not just about physical recovery—it’s a spiritual discipline. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and be reminded that God is in control, and that He provides all that we need.

Reflection Questions:

🔹 How do you incorporate prayer and worship into your daily life? What does your “altar of incense” look like?

🔹 What gifts and abilities has God given you to serve His purposes? How can you use them to build His kingdom, even in your home?

🔹 Are you taking time to rest and reflect, as God commands with the Sabbath? How can you embrace a rhythm of rest that honors Him?

Prayer for the Day:

Father, thank You for the reminder in Exodus 30-31 that our prayers are precious to You and that You have gifted us to serve You in unique ways. Help me to be faithful in offering up my worship and prayers, and to use the gifts You’ve given me for Your glory. Teach me to rest in Your presence and trust You with all the demands of my life. May I honor You in all that I do. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Today, let’s remember that every task we do is an opportunity to worship God, and that He has equipped us with everything we need to fulfill His purposes. 💛