How can we apply the willingness of the Israelites in our giving today? A Heart Stirred for Generosity “Everyone who had blue or purple or scarlet yarn, fine linen or goat hair, rams’ skins dyed red or fine leather, brought them.” (Exodus 35:23) Observations from Israel’s Example • Willingness began in the heart (v. 21 “everyone whose heart stirred him”) • Variety of gifts—precious dyes, simple goat hair, even animal skins—showed that every person could participate, whatever their means • The people responded immediately; Moses never had to coerce or manipulate • Giving was purposeful: materials were exactly what God specified for His dwelling Bringing It Forward: Practical Ways We Give Willingly 1. Give from what you already possess – Just as Israelites opened their personal supplies, we can start with the resources God has already put in our hands. 2. Give proportionately, not competitively – Two bags of goat hair pleased God as much as purple yarn; the widow’s two mites (Mark 12:41-44) still speak volumes. 3. Give promptly when the Spirit nudges – Delayed obedience often fades into forgotten intention. Act while the heart is warm. 4. Give toward God-ordained purposes – Support your local church (Malachi 3:10), gospel workers, and needs that advance His kingdom, mirroring the tabernacle project’s clear mission. 5. Give joyfully, never grudgingly – “God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) 6. Give creatively – Skills, time, hospitality, professional expertise—every “material” has a place in building up the body (1 Peter 4:10). Warnings and Encouragements from Other Scriptures • Proverbs 3:9 — “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • 1 Chronicles 29:9 — “The people rejoiced because they had given willingly and wholeheartedly to the LORD.” • Hebrews 13:16 — “Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” • Luke 6:38 — “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” The Motive: Love for the Lord • Israel’s gifts were an act of worship—they longed for God to dwell among them. • Our generosity springs from gratitude for Christ, who “though He was rich, yet for your sakes became poor” (2 Corinthians 8:9). • When love fuels giving, legalism evaporates and joy multiplies. Living It Out This Week • List what God has placed in your hand—salary, skills, spare room, free evenings. • Pray for a stirred heart and identify one need you can meet right away. • Set a percentage of income to give first, not last, each pay period. • Share a testimony of God’s provision to encourage someone else to give willingly. |
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