How can we apply the willingness seen in Exodus 35:26 to our lives? Setting the scene The tabernacle project in Exodus 35 was God-initiated, Moses-announced, and people-powered. Verse 26 shines the spotlight on “all the women whose hearts stirred them with wisdom”. They eagerly spun the goat hair needed for coverings, demonstrating a willing, skillful readiness to serve. Observing the verse • “All the women” – willingness is not limited to a few; it is open to anyone whose heart is responsive. • “Whose hearts stirred them” – the inner prompting came first; the activity followed. • “With wisdom” – their willingness included competence; they offered the best they could produce. • “Spun goat hair” – a task that might seem ordinary became sacred because it met a divine need. Principles of willingness • God values willing hearts before impressive resumes (1 Samuel 16:7). • Spirit-prompted skills are real worship (Exodus 31:3-5; Romans 12:1). • Every contribution matters; no task is too small when God has assigned it (1 Corinthians 12:18-22). • Willingness is contagious; a stirred heart often stirs others (Exodus 35:29). Putting willingness into practice today 1. Recognize the need – Look for “tabernacle projects” around you: church ministries, neighbor needs, missionary efforts (Galatians 6:10). 2. Allow the Spirit to stir your heart – Spend time in the Word and prayerful listening; He still prompts (Philippians 2:13). 3. Offer your specific skills – Teaching, carpentry, coding, baking—whatever capability you have, place it at Christ’s disposal (Colossians 3:23-24). 4. Act promptly – The women didn’t form a committee to discuss spinning; they spun. Quick obedience honors God (Psalm 119:60). 5. Give gladly – “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Willing service is joyful, not grudging. 6. Sustain the effort – They kept spinning until all the fabric was done. Finish what you start (2 Timothy 4:7). 7. Celebrate God’s work – When the tabernacle was completed, glory filled it (Exodus 40:34-35). Rejoice in how God uses collective willingness to display His presence. Guarding our motives • Beware of serving for recognition (Matthew 6:1). • Resist comparing your contribution to someone else’s (John 21:22). • Root your willingness in gratitude for Christ’s finished work (2 Corinthians 5:14-15). Encouragement to start now A stirred heart plus a willing hand equals an open door for God’s glory. Look around, listen for His prompting, and spin your “goat hair” today. |
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