Why is it important to contribute willingly to God's work? Setting the scene: Israel’s willing offering Exodus 35 opens with Moses relaying God’s instructions for building the tabernacle. Verse 9 lists some of the finest materials—“onyx stones and other gemstones to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece”. These treasures were not exacted by tax or coercion; they were to come “from everyone whose heart compels him” (v. 5). Right from the start God connects His work to a freely given, joyful response from His people. Why willing contributions matter • God looks at the heart first (1 Samuel 16:7). A gift given under pressure misses the point; He wants devotion, not duty. • Willing gifts affirm His ownership. David prayed, “Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from Your hand” (1 Chronicles 29:14). Voluntary generosity publicly declares that truth. • Cheerful giving reflects God’s character. He “loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7) because He Himself gives that way (John 3:16; James 1:17). • Freewill offerings invite God’s presence. The tabernacle—financed by heartfelt gifts—became the meeting place between a holy God and His people (Exodus 40:34-35). • Such contributions strengthen community. When everyone participates freely, the whole body shares ownership of God’s mission (Nehemiah 2:18; Philippians 1:5). • Willing giving stores eternal treasure (Matthew 6:19-21) and yields great joy (Acts 20:35). The blessings of open-handed giving 1. Spiritual growth – Generosity loosens the grip of materialism (Proverbs 11:24-25). – It cultivates faith, trusting God to replenish what is released (Malachi 3:10; Luke 6:38). 2. Tangible impact – Ministry needs are met: in Moses’ day a portable sanctuary; today, churches, missionaries, relief efforts (Philippians 4:15-18). – Excellence in worship is fostered; Israel offered precious stones, not leftovers (Exodus 35:22-24). 3. Lasting testimony – Outsiders see God’s people value Him above wealth (2 Corinthians 9:13). – Future generations inherit both a facility and an example of faith (Joshua 4:6-7). Giving that reflects God’s heart • Sacrificial – The widow’s two mites pleased Jesus more than large but painless sums (Luke 21:1-4). • Proportionate – “Each of you is to set aside a sum in keeping with your income” (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Planned – Israel collected daily until the craftsmen said, “The people are bringing more than enough” (Exodus 36:5-7). • Joy-filled – “They rejoiced, for they had offered willingly” (1 Chronicles 29:9). Practical ways to keep our giving willing • Recall God’s past provision; gratitude fuels generosity. • Decide ahead of time what to give, then follow through (2 Corinthians 9:5). • Give the first portion, not the leftovers (Proverbs 3:9-10). • Tell stories of how gifts advance the gospel; seeing fruit renews enthusiasm. • Stay alert to the Spirit’s promptings—He may nudge toward spontaneous acts of generosity beyond the budget. Wrap-up: The joy of joining His work Exodus 35:9 reminds us that God invites—not compels—His people to supply His house with their finest. When we answer that invitation freely, our resources turn into worship, our hearts grow lighter, and the kingdom advances. A willing contribution is far more than funding a project; it is an act of love toward the One who first loved us. |
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