Making The Priestly Clothes

Exodus 39:1–43
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The priests wore a uniform to the tabernacle each day. Some of the pieces of their uniform were not only beautiful but also significant. Some people think outward appearance determines inner quality. With God it is the other way around: outward appearance should reflect inner reality. The priestly garments reflected the holy character of the priests as they were in communion with a holy God.

1. Making the Priestly Clothes (vv. 1-7)

Beautiful priestly clothes were made of blue, purple and red wool for Aaron to wear when he performed his duties in the holy place, This was done exactly as the Lord commanded.

2. The Breastpiece (vv. 8-21)

The breastpiece was made with the same materials and designs as the priestly clothing. The breastplate also contained pockets that held two small objects, that may have been made of wood, stone or metal plates called the Urim and Thummin. The High Priest could, in some way, determine God’s will for the nation by consulting the Urim and Thummin.

3. The Clothes for the Priests (vv. 22-31)

The priestly robe was made of blue wool with an opening in the center for the head. This was to be worn by Aaron when he performed his duties.

4. The Work is Completed (vv. 32-43)

The people of Israel finished making everything the Lord had told Moses to make. This is reminiscent of the concluding words of the creation account (Gen. 2:1-2). The tabernacle was finally complete to the last detail. God was keenly interested in every minute detail.

Application

God even knows the number of hairs on my head (Matt. 10:30). This shows that God is greatly interested in me. I should never hesitate to talk with Him about any of my concerns no matter how small or unimportant they might seem.