In what ways can we encourage others to serve God with their abilities? God Showcases Skill: The Lesson of Exodus 35:25 “Every skilled woman spun with her hands, and they all brought what they had spun—blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen.” (Exodus 35:25) • In the wilderness tabernacle project, the Spirit highlighted women whose everyday weaving became holy service. • The verse confirms that talent is God-given, noticed by Him, and welcomed into His work exactly as it is. Seeing and Naming Gifts • Point out specific strengths you observe: “I see the way you organize details” or “Your compassion shines when you visit shut-ins.” • Proverbs 25:11—“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” Timely affirmation ignites confidence to serve. • Romans 12:6—“We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” Tell people their abilities are grace deposits, not accidents. Connecting Gifts to Kingdom Needs • Explain concrete ministry avenues (“Your baking could bless the meal train,” “Your graphics skill can help online outreach”). • 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” • Give examples of how a small task (like spinning yarn) fits a larger mission (building the tabernacle). Modeling Willing Service • When leaders joyfully roll up their sleeves, others see that service is honored, not optional. • John 13:15—Jesus washes feet and says, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” • Share personal testimonies of fulfillment found in using your own abilities for God. Offering Training and Tools • Pair novices with seasoned servants; the Israelite women had patterns and supervisors (Exodus 35:25–26). • Provide workshops, resources, or simply side-by-side practice. • 2 Timothy 2:2—entrust knowledge “to faithful people who will be competent to teach others also.” Creating Safe Spaces to Try and Fail • Let new servants start small and learn; refine rather than criticize. • Galatians 6:1—restore gently, encouraging growth instead of quitting. • Celebrate progress, not perfection. Publicly Celebrating Faithful Efforts • Mention names and contributions the way Scripture honored Bezalel, Oholiab, and every spinner (Exodus 35:30; 36:1). • 1 Corinthians 12:22—“The parts that seem to be weaker are indispensable.” Spotlight behind-the-scenes service. Guarding Hearts Against Comparison • Remind each person that the Holy Spirit “apportions to each one individually as He wills” (1 Corinthians 12:11). • Cheer for different roles so envy dies and mutual encouragement thrives. Sustaining Encouragement with Prayer and Scripture • Share verses like Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” • Send texts or notes with promises of God’s enabling (Philippians 4:13). • Keep Scripture central; faith grows when people see their service anchored in God’s unchanging Word. |
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