How does Exodus 35:28 inspire us to give generously to God's work today? Context: God’s People Bringing Their Best “and the spice and the oil for the light, for the anointing oil, and for the fragrant incense.” (Exodus 35:28) • The tabernacle project was underway; every article had to be fashioned exactly as God commanded (Exodus 25:8-9). • In verse 28, Israel’s leaders step forward with costly, finely prepared items—spices and oils essential for worship. • Nothing here is symbolic only; real people brought real resources to a real construction site, because God’s dwelling among them was a real priority. Principles Flowing From the Verse • Worship-focused giving: the gifts were “for the light… anointing oil… fragrant incense,” all used directly in worship. • Leadership by example: the first to give were the leaders (v. 27-28), modeling generosity for the rest of the nation. • Quality matters: spices and oils were luxury items, demonstrating that God deserves the finest. • Voluntary hearts: the chapter repeatedly highlights willingness (vv. 21, 22, 29); nothing coerced, all cheerful. How Exodus 35:28 Inspires Us Today • God’s work still requires material support—whether it’s gospel outreach, church planting, or benevolence. • Leaders set the tone; pastors, elders, ministry heads should be first to invest sacrificially. • Give toward what fuels worship—Bibles, missionaries, music, facilities, training—because God’s glory remains the goal. • Offer quality, not leftovers; budget for generosity the way Israel prepared fine spices. • Give freely; grace, not pressure, motivates New-Covenant believers (2 Corinthians 9:7). Practical Ways to Mirror Their Example 1. Budget line-item for God’s work before personal luxuries. 2. If you lead a family, small group, or church, share your giving testimony to encourage others. 3. Identify “spice and oil” equivalents—resources that make worship possible (audio equipment, children’s curriculum, community food pantry supplies). 4. Convert special income (tax refunds, bonuses, inheritance) into special offerings, just as Israel’s leaders brought rare items. 5. Review giving annually to ensure it still reflects reverence, gratitude, and faith. Scriptures That Echo the Call • Proverbs 3:9 — “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • Malachi 3:10 — “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… test Me in this…” • Luke 6:38 — “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” • 2 Corinthians 8:3-5 — They “gave according to their ability and even beyond, of their own accord… first to the Lord.” Exodus 35:28 shows that generous, quality, leader-modeled, worship-directed giving pleases God. The same spirit moves us to invest gladly in His work today. |
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