How can we identify and use our God-given skills for His glory? God’s Call to Skillful Service “Then the LORD said to Moses,” (Exodus 31:1) “See, I have appointed by name Bezalel … and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship” (Exodus 31:2-3). • The call comes from God; He personally identifies those He equips. • Skills are Spirit-given, not self-generated. • Wisdom, understanding, and practical ability are equally God’s gifts. Recognizing the Source of Our Skills • 1 Corinthians 12:4—“There are different gifts, but the same Spirit.” • Romans 12:6—“We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” • Every talent, whether artistic, mechanical, organizational, or relational, is a direct deposit of divine grace. • Because Scripture is literally true, each believer can trust that God has already placed specific abilities within. Practical Steps to Discover Your Gifts • Pay attention to what energizes you while serving others; God often aligns joy with calling. • Notice where fellow believers affirm fruitfulness; the Body’s recognition confirms gifting. • Compare personal inclinations with biblical gift lists (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, 28). • Seek wise counsel from mature Christians who can observe strengths objectively. • Spend unhurried time in the Word; God clarifies direction through Scripture. Sharpening and Developing God-Given Abilities • Proverbs 22:29—“Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings.” Skill grows through disciplined practice. • 2 Timothy 1:6—“Fan into flame the gift of God.” Training, mentoring, and continual learning honor the Giver. • Resist false humility; excellence showcases the Creator’s brilliance. • Guard against pride; remember the Source and purpose of every aptitude. Employing Skills for God’s Glory • 1 Peter 4:10—“As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.” • Colossians 3:17—“Whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.” • Prioritize service over spotlight—Bezalel worked behind curtains, yet his craft enhanced worship for all Israel. • Integrate faith and vocation; whether coding software, teaching children, or repairing engines, aim for worship through workmanship. • Offer results back to God—publicly credit Him, tithe income, and allow testimonies to point others to Christ. Encouragement from Other Passages • Exodus 35:31-35—Reaffirms God’s filling of Bezalel and Oholiab, proving He equips teams, not lone heroes. • Psalm 90:17—“Establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands!” God delights to endorse labor done for His purposes. • Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men.” Daily diligence becomes living worship. God still speaks as clearly as He did in Exodus 31:1. When He highlights a skill in you, receive it with gratitude, refine it with diligence, and release it in service so that His glory shines through every crafted detail of your life. |