How does Exodus 35:18 inspire us to serve in our local church today? Setting the Scene Exodus 35 records Israel’s response to God’s call for materials and labor to build the tabernacle. Verse 18 lists “the tent pegs of the tabernacle and of the courtyard, along with their ropes”—items that seem insignificant compared to gold or precious stones. Yet the Spirit prompted Moses to record them, reminding every generation that small, unseen contributions hold lasting value in God’s work. What We See in Exodus 35:18 • Ordinary items—pegs and ropes—were explicitly valued. • They served a stabilizing purpose, keeping God’s dwelling secure in the wilderness. • People willingly brought them; no task or gift was beneath anyone. • The whole structure depended on these hidden parts. Principles for Today • God notices the quiet, supportive ministries in the church as much as the public ones. • Every believer’s role, however small, helps “hold up” the house of God (1 Timothy 3:15). • Obedient service, not public recognition, is what pleases the Lord (Colossians 3:23). • A local church flourishes when everyone offers what he or she has (Ephesians 4:16). Practical Ways to Serve Like tent pegs and ropes, many acts of service are unseen yet essential. Consider: – Arriving early to set up chairs, sound equipment, or coffee tables. – Staying late to clean classrooms or stack hymnals. – Sending encouragement cards, texts, or meals to the sick. – Maintaining church grounds and fixing small repairs. – Running slides or livestream quietly at the back. – Praying consistently for services, leaders, and missionaries. – Giving financially, even if the amount feels modest. – Offering rides to seniors or parents with young children. Encouragement from Other Scriptures • 1 Corinthians 12:22–24: “The parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable.” • Mark 9:41: “Whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name… will never lose his reward.” • 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” • Philippians 2:4: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Closing Thoughts Tent pegs and ropes never drew crowds, yet without them the tabernacle could not stand. Likewise, your unseen faithfulness today secures and strengthens the local church for God’s glory. Offer what you have, serve where you are, and trust the Lord who records every peg and every rope. |
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