In what ways can we use our God-given talents for His glory today? Shaped by the Master Craftsman “He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them master craftsmen and designers.” (Exodus 35:35) What Exodus 35:35 Teaches • Talents come straight from God’s hand. • He “fills” us—abilities are not random but purposeful. • Variety matters: artistic, technical, and manual gifts all serve His plan. • The goal: to contribute to the dwelling place of God among His people. Translating Bezalel’s Workshop to Today’s World • Creative arts: painting, graphic design, music, writing—use beauty to point eyes upward (Psalm 96:9). • Skilled trades: carpentry, plumbing, coding—build structures and systems that bless neighbors (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12). • Administration and leadership: organize with integrity so ministries and businesses function righteously (Proverbs 11:1). • Teaching and mentoring: pass on skill and truth just as Oholiab instructed others (Exodus 35:34; 2 Timothy 2:2). • Generosity: fund kingdom projects out of entrepreneurial success (2 Corinthians 9:7-11). • Hospitality and mercy: weave warmth into homes and communities (Romans 12:6-8). New-Testament Echoes • 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” • Colossians 3:23-24—work wholeheartedly “as for the Lord,” remembering the real Boss. • Matthew 5:16—good works shine so others “glorify your Father in heaven.” Practical Steps to Put Talent to Work 1. Identify – List abilities, passions, experiences; ask trusted believers for confirmation. 2. Consecrate – Verbally offer each talent back to the Lord. 3. Equip – Pursue training; excellence adorns the gospel (Titus 2:10). 4. Collaborate – Join a local church team or ministry where gifts complement one another (1 Corinthians 12:18). 5. Engage Culture – Bring godly craftsmanship into secular spaces; excellence opens gospel conversations (Daniel 6:3). 6. Evaluate – Periodically ask, “Is Christ getting the credit, or am I?” (Galatians 1:10). Encouragement for Every Skill Set No talent is too ordinary. God wove every thread—muscle memory, creative spark, analytical mind—so that, like the tabernacle, our combined work becomes a dwelling place for His glory in today’s world. |
    |