Reading: Exodus 35:1 – 36:7

Scripture

…and everyone who was willing and whose heart moved him came and brought an offering to the Lord for the work on the Tent of Meeting, for all its service, and for the sacred garments. Exodus 35:21 (NIV)

Observations

The Tent of Meeting was constructed and kitted out by skilled people prepared to offer their services, using offerings made by “everyone who was willing and whose heart moved him.” It seems there was no shortage of craftsmen and craftswomen to help, and the people made so many freewill offerings, the craftsmen had to say, “Stop giving, we have enough!”

In addition, God had gifted and prepared people for specific tasks by filling them “…with skill to do all kinds of work as craftsmen, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them master craftsmen and designers.” Exodus 35:35

Application

What has God gifted me for? And more than that, what is he moving my heart to do? These two questions could really help me as I weigh up decisions about where to invest my time and energy. Potentially, there are lots of things I could turn my hand to, and I need to be willing to do whatever God would call me to. I belong to him, and to serve him is my life's calling.

But what is God moving my heart to do? What's really grabbing my attention and compelling me to act? God has promised me in Psalm 37:4, “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.” I can't do everything, but if I really have submitted myself to God, and am looking to him to satisfy the desires of my heart, I'll know when to say “yes” and when to say “no”. And perhaps also when God is giving me the option to choose!

Prayer

Thank you Father for making me just as I am. My heart is yours, along with the gifts and talents you have given to me. Holy Spirit, move me as you will – I am in your hands. Please renew my mind and my heart Lord, so that all of my desires lead to the same end, that you would be glorified. As I delight in you, I thank you that you also delight in me.