How can we contribute our skills to God's work, as in Exodus 35:6? Setting the Scene • Exodus 35 records Moses relaying God’s instructions for building the tabernacle. • Verse 6 highlights everyday materials—“blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair”—things ordinary Israelites possessed or could craft. • These simple items became essential components in God’s dwelling place among His people. Skills Are Divine Assignments • God not only provides materials; He also endows individuals with abilities (Exodus 35:30-35). • 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” • Your vocation, hobbies, and talents are purposeful tools placed in your hands by the Creator. Offering Skills Starts With Willing Hearts • Exodus 35:21: “Everyone whose heart stirred him and whose spirit prompted him came and brought an offering to the LORD.” • The people’s eagerness mattered just as much as their craftsmanship. • Readiness to serve turns raw skill into worship. Practical Ways to Contribute • Identify your “yarn and linen”—inventory practical abilities: teaching, carpentry, coding, hospitality, artistry, administration. • Dedicate them: say yes to church projects, community outreaches, mission trips, or behind-the-scenes needs (e.g., bookkeeping, web design, cooking for events). • Collaborate: Exodus 35 shows varied gifts working side by side; unity multiplies impact (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7). • Aim for excellence: Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” The Blessing of Participation • Your obedience weaves into God’s larger tapestry; individual threads create a sanctuary of His presence today—the church (Ephesians 2:10, 19-22). • Like the tabernacle, Spirit-filled service makes God’s glory visible in everyday settings. • As each person brings both material and skill, needs are met, faith is strengthened, and Christ is honored. |
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