Exodus 39:43
And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the Lord had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them.
Exodus 39:43 (KJV)
Context
The Book of Exodus tells how God delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt and led them toward the Promised Land. In the latter part of the book, God gave Moses detailed instructions for building a sanctuary called the tabernacle, a portable tent where God would dwell among His people during their wilderness journey. Every piece of this sanctuary and its furnishings was to be made exactly as God commanded on Mount Sinai.
Exodus 39 records the completion of that work. Skilled craftsmen, filled by God with wisdom and understanding, made the tabernacle, its furniture, and the priests’ garments. Every piece followed the pattern God had shown Moses. The verse before us is the closing scene: Moses inspects all the finished work and then blesses the people.
Meaning
Moses looked carefully at all the work. He did not assume it was right; he examined it. What he saw was that the people had done everything “as the LORD had commanded.” The phrase appears twice in this verse, stressing that both the matter and the manner of the work matched God’s instructions. Their obedience was not partial or careless; it covered every detail of the divine commission.
Then Moses blessed them. This blessing was more than a polite wish. As God’s appointed leader, Moses spoke God’s approval over the people. Their faithful labor had prepared a place for God’s presence, and the blessing confirmed that the work was accepted. The verse highlights the importance of obedience to God’s specific instructions, the value of thorough examination and accountability in leadership, and the blessing that follows faithful service.
Biblical connections
This careful obedience points forward to Christ, who perfectly fulfilled all of God’s commands. Through Him, believers receive God’s blessing, not because of their own perfect work, but because His obedience is counted for them. The tabernacle itself was a shadow of something greater: God’s presence now dwells in every believer through the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). Just as the Spirit enabled the craftsmen to build the tabernacle, so the Spirit enables believers to live in a way that honors God.
Application
Obedience to God’s commands: The Israelites followed specific instructions for the tabernacle. We are called to obey God’s Word with the same care, trusting that His guidance is good.
Faithfulness in service: The craftsmen used their skills for God’s glory. We too can serve God with excellence, using our talents to honor Him and help others.
Accountability and examination: Moses inspected the work. Leaders and workers alike benefit from honest review, ensuring that what is offered to God truly follows His will.
Blessing through obedience: God delights to bless faithful service. As we walk in His ways, He pours out favor, guidance, and His presence.
Reflection
This verse invites us to consider our own labor for God. Is it done according to His Word, or according to our own preferences? Faithful work may not always be visible to others, but God sees it. When we serve with whole hearts, we can trust that He will bless our efforts and dwell among us, just as He did with Israel. The same God who inspected the tabernacle and blessed the workers still watches over our service today.
