Scripture Daily

Context No. 3945 of 4322 · Exodus

Context · Reflection

Exodus 35:30-35: in context

30Moses said to the children of Israel, “Behold, the LORD has called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. 31He has filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all kinds of workmanship; 32and to make skillful works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze, 33in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all kinds of skillful workmanship. 34He has put in his heart that he may teach, both he and Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. 35He has filled them with wisdom of heart to work all kinds of workmanship, of the engraver, of the skillful workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of those who do any workmanship, and of those who make skillful works.

Moses tells Israel that God has called Bezalel by name and filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill and knowledge in every kind of craftsmanship, to design and work in gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood for the tabernacle. And then a striking detail: God also gave him, and his helper Oholiab, the ability to teach.

God did not only make Bezalel a gifted craftsman; he gave him the gift of passing that skill on to others. Two things stand out. God is the source of skill and ability. The craftsmanship for his dwelling came from a man filled with God's Spirit; even artistic and practical skill is a gift of God, to be used for his glory. And gifts are given not only to use but to share. Bezalel was equipped to teach, to multiply his gift in others, so that the work would go beyond what one pair of hands could do. Whatever skill God has given us is his gift, meant to serve him; and part of stewarding a gift well is passing it on, teaching and equipping others rather than hoarding it.

Do I recognize my skills and abilities as gifts of God to be used for his glory, and am I willing, like Bezalel, to teach and equip others rather than keeping my gift to myself?

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