Sukkot: Appointment With Trust

All About Trust

Sukkot (or Feast of Tabernacles) is about trust–trusting God. God asked Israel to remember important aspects of their national salvation (coming out of Egypt) through yearly appointments (see “Moed“).

This particular appointment was a celebration where Israel was asked to make small booths and spend time in them for seven days.

Why? To remember God’s provision during those times in history when they’d had little to nothing. It reminded Israel of God’s work and that He can be trusted even when things don’t look so great outwardly.

One aspect of the booths which portrays this is that any wind, rain or storm quickly becomes a threat when inside the booths. They’re shaky, weak and leaky in the tempest. God wanted to remind His people that their effort alone cannot create true provision or security.

Dependence On God

Think of how much time you spend creating safety–exerting effort for a life that gives you a sense of protection and supply. We all want a clean and comfortable home, for example.

Sukkot reminds us that these human-generated works are illusions. The only real safety and security comes from God alone. Sukkot is a time for Israel and all her people to remember this truth.

Dwelling In His Presence

Israel is required to leave their homes during these seven days and spend time in each of their booths, even demanding that each roof in a booth have sufficient gaps and holes so that the inhabitant can see the night stars.

Why? So that they would be reminded of God’s presence above.

It was from their booths that Israel, having come out of Egypt, were able to see the pillar of fire by night. God’s Presence literally dwelled with them in the wilderness. Taking a moment to look into the vast heavens at night can remind us all of our place before God in the universe.

Focus On All Nations

There’s also a focus on all the nations (Gentiles) during this time. According to Jewish tradition, this is the time that all nations will join with Israel in celebration of Sukkot.

The Jewish people teach that Sukkot reminds them of a time when they had followed God like a bride in love–prioritizing everything toward being in God’s presence.

For everyone, Sukkot can be both a reminder and an invitation. Are we willing to trust Him, to lead a life of dependence, and as a result, be found enjoying His presence?