Moses did everything just as the Lord commanded him
Exodus 40:16 NIV
This verse beautifully captures obedience in action—a faith expressed through complete trust and faithful response to God’s instructions. Moses’ life reveals that obedience is not merely about following rules; it is about aligning one’s heart and actions with divine purpose. His story teaches that when obedience becomes active, God’s glory becomes visible.
Moses stands as a figure of obedience in action, showing that faith matures through submission to God’s will. When God first called him at the burning bush, he hesitated and questioned his own ability. However, over time, he grew into a leader who trusted God completely. Exodus 40:16 marks the culmination of that transformation. After receiving detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, its furnishings, the priestly garments, and the rituals of consecration, Moses carried out every command without alteration or hesitation. He did not improvise or reinterpret God’s words; instead, he performed them exactly as instructed. Consequently, his obedience allowed the presence of God to dwell among the Israelites in visible glory.
The verse emphasises that Moses acted. He did everything. He did not delegate responsibility carelessly or ignore any command. Moreover, his obedience flowed directly from faith. Moses understood that every instruction carried spiritual meaning and divine purpose. The Tabernacle symbolised God’s desire to dwell among His people, and through Moses’ obedience, that divine desire found fulfilment. As a result, after Moses completed the work, the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle. His faithfulness created a sacred space where divine presence could manifest.
In Genesis 6:22, the same pattern unfolds: “Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” Noah built the ark under conditions that defied human logic, yet he acted in obedience to divine instruction. Likewise, Moses’ faith produced obedience, and his obedience produced glory. Both men demonstrated that true obedience does not depend on convenience or full understanding; it depends on trust. When God speaks, faith responds through action.
Later, in Deuteronomy 5:32, Moses urged Israel, “So be careful to do what the Lord your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left.” Through this, he showed that obedience is not a one-time act but a lifelong discipline. Furthermore, Moses not only obeyed but also taught obedience as a lifestyle. He knew that blessing and divine favour follow those who act upon God’s word. His personal example gave authority to his instruction because he had lived what he preached.
The message of Exodus 40:16 also resonates with the teachings of Jesus. In John 14:15, Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands.” Therefore, obedience always flows from love. Moses loved God, and his obedience expressed that love. Similarly, Jesus affirmed that true devotion links love and obedience. Indeed, obedience without love becomes mechanical, but love without obedience remains empty. Genuine faith acts upon divine instruction with both trust and affection.
Moses’ example also shows that obedience must be precise. Partial obedience equals disobedience. God gave Moses specific measurements, materials, and sequences for every part of the Tabernacle. Moses followed every detail carefully. Consequently, his accuracy reflected reverence. He understood that obedience honours God’s holiness. Today, believers must recover that same attitude. God deserves not a half-hearted response but full commitment. When the heart fully submits to His word, life aligns with His divine purpose.
In our modern world, where delay and compromise often replace commitment, Exodus 40:16 challenges believers to return to the discipline of immediate obedience. When God speaks through His Word, His Spirit, or His promises, we must respond promptly. Moses did not wait for convenience; instead, he acted at once. Therefore, his decisive faith allowed an entire nation to experience God’s glory.
Ultimately, the story of Moses in Exodus 40:16 stands as a timeless reminder that obedience sustains a divine relationship. God does not dwell where rebellion reigns; He inhabits the lives of those who listen and act. Moses lived within that reality, and his obedience became the channel for God’s glory. Consequently, every believer who follows the same pattern experiences the same truth: when faith acts, God moves.
In conclusion, Exodus 40:16 encapsulates the essence of spiritual maturity. Moses did everything just as the Lord commanded him. His obedience reflected trust, reverence, and love. Moreover, his actions turned divine instruction into sacred reality. Through his faithfulness, God revealed His presence in visible glory. This same principle still governs the believer’s journey today—God commands, and the faithful respond. When obedience becomes complete, glory follows.
Living It Out
Obedience to God is not merely about following rules but about expressing love through action. Each time God speaks—through His Word, His Spirit, or the quiet prompting of the heart—choose to respond immediately and completely. Like Moses, let your obedience reflect your trust and devotion, knowing that every act of faith opens the way for God’s glory to dwell in your life.