Messianic Jewish Counseling Devotional for Couples on Parashat Terumah
Building a Dwelling Place Together
Torah Portion: Terumah (Exodus 25:1–27:19)
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Introduction
Parashat Terumah begins with an invitation from Ad-nai: “Let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them” (Exodus 25:8). In this portion of the Book of Exodus, G-d does not demand materials by force; He calls for offerings from every willing heart. Gold, silver, acacia wood, oil, and fine linen were brought freely to construct the Mishkan, the sacred dwelling place in the wilderness.
For Messianic Jewish couples, Terumah teaches that covenant life is built through voluntary, intentional giving. Just as the Tabernacle was designed according to G-d’s pattern, marriage flourishes when couples follow His design and invite His Presence to dwell between them. In Yeshua, who “tabernacled” among us, we see the fullness of G-d’s desire to dwell with His people. A marriage centered on Him becomes a living sanctuary.
Core Theme for Couples
Willing Offerings and Intentional Design:
A thriving covenant marriage is built through voluntary contribution, shared spiritual purpose, and alignment with G-d’s blueprint.
Devotional Reflection
Terumah emphasizes that sacred space requires preparation. The Mishkan did not emerge spontaneously; it was constructed carefully, piece by piece, according to divine instruction. Each Israelite contributed something valuable. Not everyone brought the same material, but each offering mattered.
In marriage, each spouse brings unique strengths, experiences, and emotional resources. One may bring stability; the other creativity. One may bring structure; the other warmth. When both give willingly, the relationship becomes a dwelling place for the Presence of G-d.
The Ark of the Covenant stood at the center of the Mishkan. It represented covenant faithfulness and divine authority. Likewise, marriage must have a sacred center, shared values, prayer, Torah principles, and commitment to Messiah. When that center is neglected, the structure weakens. When it is protected, the entire relationship gains stability.
Through Yeshua, G-d demonstrates His ultimate Terumah, His self-giving love. Couples reflect this love when they offer patience instead of criticism, encouragement instead of withdrawal, and humility instead of pride.
Counseling Insight
In cognitive-behavioral terms, the structure of marriage is shaped by internal beliefs and repeated behaviors.
Thought patterns such as:
- “My spouse doesn’t appreciate me.”
- “I must carry this alone.”
- “Nothing will improve.”
create emotional distance and defensive responses.
Replacing distorted beliefs with covenant truth:
- “We are building something sacred.”
- “We both matter in this design.”
- “Small offerings make lasting impact.”
transforms the relational atmosphere.
Healthy marriages require ongoing contribution. When one partner gives reluctantly or with resentment, intimacy diminishes. Willing, conscious investment restores connection.
Exercises for Couples
- Read Exodus 25:1–9 together.
- Identify Your Offerings.
Each spouse shares:- One strength they bring into the marriage.
- One area where they feel called to give more intentionally.
- Design Alignment.
Discuss:- What spiritual practices keep G-d at the center of our marriage?
- What practical habits help maintain emotional safety?
- Sanctuary Check-In.
Ask one another:- Does our home currently feel like a dwelling place of peace?
- What small change this week would strengthen that atmosphere?
Closing Prayer
G-d of Glory,
You invited Your people to build a sanctuary so that You might dwell among them. Teach us to build our marriage with willing hearts and faithful hands. Reveal what we are holding back and give us joy in offering it freely. May our home reflect Your holiness, peace, and covenant love. Through Yeshua, who dwells with us and within us, establish our union as a sacred dwelling place. Amen.
Shabbat Shalom.
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Series Note: This devotional is part of “Walking Together in Covenant,” a Messianic Jewish Counseling Devotionals for Couples series from Machaseh Shel Tikvah (Shelter of Hope) for Counseling, a member of the Village of Hope & Justice Ministry Family.
