Clouds

of

Glory

Brazos Berean’s Sukkot, Glen rose, 2024

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Isaiah 66:2, John 14:23

Humility, obedience to Scripture, and the promise of the Almighty’s divine presence for those who follow Him.

Encountering Clouds

Clouds symbolize His presence more than the manna and water from the rock. 

Manna and water are for the body.  The Cloud of Glory is for the soul.

Exodus 24:12-18

The Word originally came amidst clouds of glory.

Revelation 1:7, Daniel 7:13

Yeshua is associated with clouds, both in His departure and His return.

Hebrew term Ananei Kavod

Refers to the protective and concealing Clouds of Glory.

Symbolism of the Cloud in the Wilderness:

Protection and Guidance

Shielded Israelites from the sun and enemies (Exodus 14:20).

The cloud cleared paths, flattened obstacles, and ensured safety during their desert journey.

Spiritual Meaning

The cloud reminds believers to unlearn reliance on sight and develop faith.

Tabernacle and Divine Presence:

Mount Sinai

The cloud descends, signifying the Almighty’s presence.  It also departs Mount Sinai.

The Tabernacle

Cloud enters the Tabernacle and becomes the meeting point between God and Israel.

Even Moses is overwhelmed by the cloud and is unable to enter the Tabernacle.

Clouds in Covenant and Sin:

Noah: A cloud hosts the rainbow as a sign of covenant.

Golden Calf Incident: The cloud disappears due to sin, but returns after repentance and the building of the Mishkan.

Present and Future Hope:

Messiah and the Cloud

Yeshua ascended in a cloud (Acts 1:9) and will return in a cloud.

Believers, as temples of the Spirit, carry His glory within them (1 Corinthians 6:19).

Role of the Cloud

Not just part of Israel’s history, but a continuing sign of the Almighty’s guidance and protection.

Shechinah (The Dwelling):

Exodus 25:8

He desires a sanctuary to dwell among His people.

His presence in the cloud is transcendent and immanent.

It is both distant and near.

Holiness and Fear of His Presence:

The Israelites, as spiritual beginners, find His intense holiness intimidating.

Moses urges them toward growth in holiness, grace, and knowledge.

Mystery of God’s Presence:

Transcendence

God is majestic, exalted, and beyond human understanding.

Immanence

At the same time, He is near and personal, guiding and protecting His people.

Cloud and Fire as Visible Love:

Exodus 40:38, Numbers 9:15

The cloud by day and fire by night are signs of Adonai’s presence throughout Israel’s journey.

These dual manifestations emphasize both His transcendence and immanence.

Purpose of the Cloud:

The cloud symbolizes security and trust, guiding Israel through the wilderness and shielding them from harm.

Those who trust see it as a blessing.  Those who do not trust view it as a mystery or challenge.

The Cloud and Temple Dedication:

1 Kings 8:10-12

During the dedication, a cloud fills the Temple, so overwhelming that priests cannot stand to minister.

The cloud signifies divine glory residing within the Temple.

Adonai says He dwell in a thick cloud.

Final Reflection:

The cloud represents both the Almighty’s greatness and His closeness.

The cloud serves as a tangible expression of His love, care, and guidance – both hidden and visible.

Entering His Cloud:

The whole world can be a doorway to His all-pervasive Presence.

Prayer

Prayer is as incense in Psalm 141:2.  It brings us into His presence.

Praise and Worship

Praise and Worship direct the heart and mind toward the Almighty with intentionality or kavanah.  Speak with psalms, hymns, and songs (Ephesians 5:19). 

Scripture and Reflection on His Word

Studying His word creates a metaphorical cloud of His presence which will influence our thoughts and actions.

Community

His presence is felt when people gather in community in His name (Matthew 18:20).

Messianic Return, 1 Thessalonians 4:17

Believers will meet Yeshua in the clouds at His return.  It is a divine Messianic reunion.

Clouds Symbolize Protection and Divine Guidance:

Though not always visible today, believers can sense the Cloud of His Presence guiding them through life.

Resource for Further Study:

Secrets of the Menorah

by Valerie Moody.  This book explores rich and intriguing aspects of the Temple Menorah, its bizarre history in exile, and biblical Menorah patterns.