Picky, picky, picky.
It is the way God seems in the chapters dealing with the tabernacle and its furnishings. From the measurements of the curtains to the number of loops on each end to tie them to the wall supports. From the choice of fabric to the choice of color. Nothing was left to the imagination of man. In fact, everything was to be made “according to the plan” God showed Moses in the mountain. “Exactly” according to the plan, the text says (25:9). This becomes a theme beginning in this part of the book, for the command to follow instructions occurs repeatedly (25:9,40; 26:30; 27:8) and in a variety of forms.
But it’s not just about following instructions.
This building is to be something grand. The materials they are to use are not ordinary. To a very practical mind, one might wonder why the curtains had to be of “finely” twisted linen, why the clasps to hold curtains together had to be of gold, why acacia wood had to be used, why the bases for the tent poles had to be set in bronze bases, why the oil for the lamps had to be “clear” and from “olives.” These were a nomadic people and a tabernacle like this would undoubtedly stand out – like building a stone mansion in a trailer park.
But that was the point. Israel’s God was not a man – nor like a man. Their God was uncommon among the gods of the people surrounding them. The place of His dwelling had to be special.
In every thing we do for God, it should be the very best possible. And since God now has made his home within us, His Church, everything about us should radiate that we are different in a way that will bring honor and glory to the Lord.