How does Exodus 31:3 demonstrate God's role in equipping us for service? The Setting: Bezalel’s Calling Exodus 31 introduces Bezalel, chosen to build the tabernacle’s furnishings. God does not simply assign the task; He supplies everything needed to carry it out. Fourfold Provision in Exodus 31:3 “and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship.” (Exodus 31:3) Look at each phrase: • “filled him with the Spirit of God” – Divine presence is the first and greatest resource. • “with wisdom” – Insight to see what should be done. • “understanding” – The know-how to turn insight into plans. • “ability in all kinds of craftsmanship” – Practical skill to finish the job with excellence. God does not leave gaps; His equipping is complete—spiritual, mental, and practical. Timeless Principles for Us Today • God initiates the call and the competence (Philippians 2:13). • Spiritual fullness precedes effective service (Zechariah 4:6). • Wisdom and skill are gifts, not merely human traits (James 1:17). • Every assignment from God carries matched resources from God (2 Corinthians 9:8). Parallels in the New Testament • Spiritual gifts: “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit… to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:4-7) • Prepared works: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.” (Ephesians 2:10) • Equipped people: “so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:17) Responding to God’s Equipping 1. Recognize the Source – Skill and opportunity come from Him. 2. Rely on the Spirit – Stay yielded so empowerment keeps flowing. 3. Refine the Gift – Bezalel still had to practice; stewardship honors the Giver. 4. Remember the Purpose – Gifts exist for God’s glory and others’ good (1 Peter 4:10-11). |
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