What skills did God give Bezalel, and how can we use our talents? Bezalel: Called, Filled, Equipped “See, I have called by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may craft every work.” Skills God gave Bezalel • Spirit-filled wisdom and understanding • Creative insight (“ability in all kinds of craftsmanship”) • Metalwork in gold, silver, bronze • Gem-cutting and setting • Wood-carving • Overall design and project leadership (Exodus 35:31–34) Why These Skills Matter • They enabled the tabernacle—the visible place of God’s presence—to be built with excellence (Exodus 31:6–11). • They showed that artistic talent is a sacred calling, not a side issue. • They revealed that the Spirit equips believers for practical work, not only “religious” tasks. How We Can Use Our Talents Today 1. Recognize the Source – “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). – Humility grows when we remember our abilities are God-given. 2. Seek the Spirit’s Filling – Ephesians 5:18 calls us to be “filled with the Spirit,” the same empowerment Bezalel received. – Prayerful dependence turns natural skill into supernatural ministry. 3. Dedicate Skills to God’s Glory – 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – Whether coding software, teaching kids, or crafting furniture, offer it as worship. 4. Serve Others – 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” – Gifts find their fullest purpose when they bless people and build up Christ’s body. 5. Practice Excellence and Integrity – Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” – Quality craftsmanship bears witness to the Creator’s perfection. 6. Collaborate in Community – Bezalel worked alongside Oholiab and many skilled helpers (Exodus 31:6). – Combine talents in the church and beyond; teamwork multiplies impact. 7. Mentor and Multiply – Exodus 35:34 notes Bezalel’s God-given ability “to teach others.” – Pass on skills; disciple the next generation of artisans, leaders, and servants. Key Take-Away Verses • Romans 12:6: “We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” • Matthew 25:21: “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.” Use what God has placed in your hands—skill, insight, creativity, strength—and watch Him weave it into His greater story, just as He did through Bezalel in the wilderness. |
    |