How does Exodus 35:23 encourage us to use our resources for God's work? Setting the scene Israel has just received God’s instructions for building the tabernacle. Moses invites the people to contribute whatever materials they already own so that the dwelling place of God can be constructed in the wilderness. The verse itself “Every man who had in his possession blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, fine linen, goat hair, ram skins dyed red, or fine leather presented them.” (Exodus 35:23) Observations from Exodus 35:23 • Voluntary, not coerced—“presented” implies willing offering. • Tangible resources—yarn, linen, hides, leather. God values material goods when surrendered to Him. • Variety of gifts—different items, colors, and qualities. No single contribution met every need; together they completed the work. • Personal ownership—people gave what was already “in [their] possession.” God expects stewardship, not imaginary giving. • Immediate obedience—once the call went out, the people acted; they did not delay until conditions seemed perfect. What this teaches about our resources today • Everything we possess is ultimately God’s (1 Chronicles 29:14). He invites us to return a portion for His purposes. • God’s work is funded and supplied through His people, not through impersonal sources. • The standard is willingness of heart, not size of gift (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Diverse contributions are essential—time, skills, finances, possessions, platforms, and creativity all have a place. • Readiness to give demonstrates trust that God will continue to provide (Proverbs 3:9–10). Practical ways to respond • Inventory what God has already placed in your hand—budget line items, tools, talents, vehicles, spare rooms, digital skills. • Designate a regular portion of income to local church and missionary work before spending on yourself. • Offer specialized skills—carpentry for building projects, graphic design for outreach materials, cooking for hospitality ministries. • Keep a “ready to release” box or fund so you can respond instantly when needs arise. • Involve the whole household—children can contribute toys or clothes; teens can volunteer hours. • Celebrate every gift, large or small, and publicly recount God’s faithfulness to encourage more generosity (Acts 4:34–35). Echoes across Scripture • Proverbs 11:25—“A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” • Luke 21:1–4—the widow’s two small coins; God measures sacrifice, not size. • Romans 12:1—“Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice”; stewardship begins with self-surrender. • 1 Corinthians 12:7—spiritual gifts are “for the common good,” mirroring material gifts for the tabernacle. • 2 Corinthians 8:3–4—the Macedonians gave “even beyond their ability,” begging for the privilege of sharing in God’s work. Living it out God still calls His people to build—church fellowships, mission efforts, relief ministries, and gospel initiatives. Like the Israelites, bring what is already in your possession and place it at His disposal. When God’s people freely release their resources, He multiplies the impact, His presence is made known, and the world sees a tangible witness to His glory. |
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