There are many things in the history of Israel that we should try to avoid in our lives; complaining about difficulties, impatient grumbling, their idolatry, their lack of faith in the face of enemies, and others. But chapter 39 gives us something from their lives we should try to emmulate.
They finished the work of the Tabernacle, “Just as the Lord commanded.” The phrase “they made… as the Lord commanded,” show up 8 times in one chapter; 1, 5, 7, 21, 26, 29, 31, 32, 42 & 43.
The obedience of Israel is recorded for our learning. Arthur Pink concludes the observation by saying, “We too have received commandment from the Lord concerning the work which He has given us to do. His complete Word is now in our hands, It is to be our guide and regulator in all things. It is given that ‘the man of God may be complete, thoroughly furnished unto all good works’ (2 Tim. 3:17).
God’s work done in God’s way always receives God’s blessing. God’s approval was what they wanted. For him no expense was spared, no corner was cut, no detail was overlooked. The Israelites wanted to please the God of their salvation, and as a result, their work enjoyed the smile of his blessing.
We too work for God’s blessing. We all hope to hear on that unavoidable great day, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”