How can we contribute our skills to God's work, as seen in Exodus 35? Setting the Scene Exodus 35 records Israel’s volunteer workforce rallying to build the Tabernacle. Moses calls for offerings of material and skill, and the people respond with eager hearts and willing hands. Verse in Focus: Exodus 35:17 “the stands of the courtyard with their bases, the curtain for the gate of the courtyard, the ropes, and the tent pegs of the courtyard.” Key Observations • The Spirit‐directed inventory includes “tent pegs” and “ropes”—humble items most would overlook. • God names every component, revealing that even small, practical pieces are essential to His dwelling place. • Craftsmanship is assumed. Ropes must be twisted, stands forged, curtains woven. Skilled laborers are indispensable. Principles for Today • Every skill counts – Exodus 35:10: “Let every skilled craftsman among you come…” – 1 Corinthians 12:4-7: gifts differ, but each manifests the Spirit for the common good. • Offer willingly, not grudgingly – Exodus 35:21: “Everyone whose heart was stirred…” – 2 Corinthians 9:7: God loves a cheerful giver—time and talent included. • Practical service is spiritual service – Colossians 3:17: “Whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” – A peg pounded for God’s house is as holy as incense burned. • God equips what He calls – Exodus 35:30-35: Bezalel and Oholiab receive Spirit‐given ability. – 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others…” • Small roles support greater glory – No stand, rope, or peg meant no stable courtyard; likewise, unseen tasks today uphold visible ministry. Putting It into Practice • Inventory your abilities—hands-on trades, administration, artistry, technology, hospitality. • Ask where those gifts could stabilize or beautify the “courtyard” of your local congregation: – Maintenance teams, media setup, sewing banners, bookkeeping, landscaping. • Give your best craftsmanship; God notices quality (Exodus 35:32). • Serve alongside others. Tabernacle work was communal; isolation is foreign to biblical ministry. • Keep the motive worshipful: skills are offerings laid at His feet, not avenues for self-promotion. When tent pegs and curtain ropes mattered in Exodus 35, every modern talent has a place in God’s ongoing work. Offer yours willingly, skillfully, and worshipfully, and watch Him weave them into His greater design. |
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