In what ways can we offer our "articles of gold" to God today? Key Verse “So all who had willing hearts, both men and women, came and brought brooches, earrings, rings, and necklaces—every kind of gold jewelry—everyone who presented an offering of gold to the LORD.” (Exodus 35:22) Original Meaning of the “Articles of Gold” • Items of personal value willingly surrendered for the construction of the tabernacle • Tangible proof that God’s people placed Him above their most prized possessions • A literal fulfillment of Exodus 25:2—“from every man whose heart prompts him” Timeless Principle: God Values Willing Offerings • God desires the heart behind the gift more than the gift itself (2 Corinthians 9:7) • He uses what we lay down to build His dwelling place among people today—the Church (1 Peter 2:5) Our Modern “Articles of Gold” • Finances and possessions (Proverbs 3:9-10; 1 Timothy 6:17-18) • Talents, skills, and creativity (Exodus 31:3-5; Colossians 3:23) • Time and energy (Ephesians 5:16) • Platforms, influence, and relationships (Philippians 1:12-14) • Technology and tools (Psalm 96:3—“Declare His glory among the nations”) • Our very bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1) Specific Ways to Present Them Today • Budget a first-fruits tithe and freewill offerings for church, missions, and benevolence • Volunteer professional skills—accounting, carpentry, design, teaching—for ministry projects • Offer musical or technical ability in worship or media teams • Open your home for Bible studies or hospitality to missionaries • Use social media influence to share Scripture and testify of Christ • Donate vehicles, equipment, or land for church use • Set aside regular blocks of time for evangelism, mentoring, and intercession Guardrails: Avoiding Misuse of Our Gold • Give for God’s glory, not personal praise (Matthew 6:1-4) • Refuse to hold back deceptively, remembering Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-5) • Keep motives pure; whatever is not from faith is sin (Romans 14:23) Promises for Cheerful Givers • “Give, and it will be given to you… running over” (Luke 6:38) • “Bring the whole tithe… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven” (Malachi 3:10) • “God is able to make all grace abound to you” (2 Corinthians 9:8) Takeaway The Israelites’ jewelry built a physical sanctuary; our modern “articles of gold” advance Christ’s kingdom. Holding nothing back, we honor the LORD, bless His people, and store up “treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). |
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