Exodus 35:29, 36:2 (ESV) – All the men and women, the people of Israel, whose heart moved them to bring anything for the work that the LORD had commanded by Moses to be done brought it as a freewill offering to the LORD… And Moses called Bezalel and Oholiab and every craftsman in whose mind the LORD had put skill, everyone whose heart stirred him up to come to do the work.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (NIV) – Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
“To make a holy dwelling for God, the Israelites had to have the right materials. Exodus 35 tells how they gathered what they needed for this huge building project. They all had a contribution to make, and from their example we learn what it means to have a heart for giving – offering what we have and what we do for the glorious work of God.” [Ryken, Philip. Exodus: Saved for God’s Glory, p.1026]
The Israelites were given a chance to build the tabernacle for God’s dwelling, something unprecedented at the time. What an incredible blessing that God is willing to involve us in his kingdom and work. Let’s worship to the song, “Build My Life” by Housefires. With hearts stirred by God, pray/sow generously and cheerfully for God’s kingdom to come where you are.
– JH
