How does Exodus 35:8 emphasize the importance of contributing to God's work today? Setting the verse in context “and spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense;” (Exodus 35:8) - Moses is collecting a freewill offering so the Tabernacle can be built (Exodus 35:4-9). - The list moves from large, obvious materials (gold, silver, bronze) to something small and easily overlooked—spices. - By including even aromatic powders, the Lord shows that every piece, however modest, is essential to His dwelling place. Seeing the value of every contribution - The Tabernacle could not fulfill its purpose without the fragrance of oil and incense; worship would lack its God-ordained completeness (Exodus 30:22-38). - Spices remind us that God notices details. Nothing offered to Him is insignificant (Mark 12:41-44). - Our “little” gifts combine with others to create an atmosphere where His presence is sensed and His name honored. Giving from a willing heart - Only “everyone whose heart is willing” was asked to bring (Exodus 35:5). - New-covenant giving rests on the same principle: “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). - God values motive over magnitude; the aroma of a glad heart pleases Him more than the quantity itself (Philippians 4:18). Contributions fuel worship and witness - Anointing oil set apart priests and furnishings, symbolizing the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying work (1 John 2:20). - Fragrant incense pictured prayer ascending to God (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3-4). - When believers give time, talent, or treasure, they help sustain both the ministry of the Word and the aroma of intercession in the church (Hebrews 13:16). Translating the principle to today - Buildings, missionary support, benevolence funds, technology—each requires modern “spices” supplied by God’s people. - Skills such as music, administration, cleaning, counseling, or graphic design may seem small yet add indispensable beauty and order to corporate worship. - The Spirit still blends varied gifts into one fragrant offering (1 Peter 4:10-11). Practical take-aways • View every resource—money, abilities, possessions—as potential incense for the Lord. • Ask, “What unique ‘spice’ has He placed in my hands?” Then offer it freely. • Partner with other believers so the full fragrance of Christ fills the congregation (Ephesians 5:2). • Trust that God multiplies even the smallest gift into something essential for His work (John 6:9-13). |
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