READ EXODUS 31
GO DEEPER
Exodus 31 holds significance not only in its teachings but also in its practical application. Firstly, God handpicks the individuals who will carry out the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings. Secondly, God instructs Israel to honor the Sabbath to acknowledge His holiness as the Lord. Lastly, we witness God bestowing upon Moses the two stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments, written by God's own finger.
At this juncture, Moses has spent 40 days on Mount Sinai with God, receiving intricate instructions on the worship practices for the Israelites. As stated in Exodus 25:9, God directs Moses to replicate the tabernacle and its items precisely according to the revealed pattern. Every aspect was meticulously designed by God, leaving no room for chance or human manipulation. Once the blueprint was laid out before Moses, God reveals the individuals who will bring these plans to fruition: Bezalel of the tribe of Judah and Oholiab of the tribe of Dan. As described in 31:3, they were filled with the Spirit of God and had the skills and knowledge needed for the job.
Throughout the books of Exodus and Genesis, we repeatedly witness God calling upon ordinary individuals, often seemingly unqualified, to carry out His divine purposes. From Joseph emerging from a dungeon to save Egypt from famine, to Moses being chosen from the wilderness to lead Israel's liberation from slavery, and even David, the youngest son of Jesse, plucked from tending sheep to reign as Israel's king. This exemplifies God's pattern of selection.
Just as Bezalel and Oholiab were chosen and empowered by God, we too are beckoned and equipped to contribute to a greater narrative – an eternal story that illuminates His name to those in spiritual darkness. Let us relinquish our fears, insecurities, and personal agendas, placing our trust in Him to supply all that is necessary for fulfilling the unique calling bestowed upon us.
QUESTIONS
1. What observations can you make about God and His methods of accomplishing tasks in this chapter?
2. How is God possibly inviting you to collaborate with Him in helping others and advancing His kingdom?
3. How does the knowledge that God provides the necessary tools to those He calls motivate you today? In what specific ways has God equipped you to serve Him in a distinctive manner today?