Deep down, most of us want to know that we’re not alone. Scripture shows us that God isn’t a distant figure watching from afar. He talks to people, calls them by name, and shows up in their lives. Exodus 25:8 takes it one step further and shows us that God wants to live with His people.
“Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.” (Exodus 25:8 NIV)
The Hebrew word translated “dwell” is shakan (שָׁכַן), pronounced shah-KAHN. It means to settle in, to take up residence. This isn’t about dropping by for a quick visit. Shakan is God deliberately choosing to be close, making Himself at home with His people. That same root gives us the word Shekinah, which describes God’s visible, tangible presence.
Think about the context in Exodus 25. These are people who have just escaped slavery. They’re still trying to figure out who God is. One of the first things God says is, Build e a sanctuary so I can live among you. Before they worry about where they’re headed, they need to know who’s traveling with them. God makes His will known to them not just through a list of rules, but by being present.
The tabernacle became visible proof that God was right there in the middle of their tents and their everyday routines. He didn’t sit up in heaven only showing up for holy days. When God settles in like that, it changes how He speaks. He doesn’t shout orders from the clouds; He speaks from right beside us.
That makes a difference when we’re trying to figure out God’s will for our lives. We like to search for signs, big answers, clear directions about what’s next. But Exodus 25:8 tells us that God’s main promise isn’t a detailed roadmap; it’s Himself. We hear His voice best when we’re paying attention to how close He is.
God’s presence brings something holy into the ordinary. The sanctuary was special and set apart, so everything about Israel’s life shifted. How they worshiped, how they treated each other, how they saw themselves as God’s people. When God moves in, no part of our lives stays the same.
For us as Christians, this idea of shakan reaches its peak in Jesus. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14 NIV). God didn’t just send a message. He moved in. And now, through the Holy Spirit, He makes His home in us, in our bodies.
God still speaks today through His presence. He wants us to stay aware of Him. Walking in His will means living like we know He’s right here — guiding us, correcting us when we need it, comforting us, and slowly shaping us into who we’re becoming.
The God who chooses to live with His people hasn’t changed. Shakan tells us that His voice is present in a faithful God who has decided to stay close to us, every step of the way.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for choosing to dwell with us, first in the tabernacle, then in Jesus, and now by your Spirit in our hearts. Make us more aware of your presence. May we live today knowing we’re never alone, because you have chosen to make your home with us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Alan Smith
Reprinted with permission from Alan Smith’s Thought For the Day
