1. God dwells with his people (15-16)

On the day the tabernacle was completed, the glory of the Lord filled it. The tabernacle was built and the sacrificial system given so that God might dwell with his people. This points to Jesus' perfect sacrifice. Because he died for our sins and rose from death, the Holy Spirit comes to indwell the hearts of believers (Jn 7:39).

2. God leads his people (17-23)

God is not a spectator. He leads his people. The cloud which led Israel looked like a fire at night and a bright cloud by day. This teaches us about God's leading. When the cloud lifted, the Israelites set out on their journey. When the cloud settled, the Israelites encamped. They never knew how long they would stay in one place or how long they would travel. They never knew just what direction they would take. Our journey to the Promised Land of heaven is such a pilgrimage. He leads us by his word and by his Spirit.

Application: Lord, lead me throughout my earthly journey.
One Word: Don't calculate; pray and obey God