Nonspiritual Gifts

Exodus 30:11-31:18 Matthew 26:47-68 Psalm 32 Proverbs 8:27-32

“See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills.” – Exodus 31:2-3

Often times we think of gifts from God being spiritual in nature. A gift of prophecy. Or pastoring. Love, joy, peace. But here is someone God has given the gift to build. Carpenters have never been known as spiritual leaders, necessarily. The thing is, God has a plan to bring heaven to earth. This tabernacle is a replica of God’s house in heaven. Not exact, but about as close as could be made in this fallen earth. For this reason, God is going to pick the very best to build it for Him.

Most of us at church are everyday people. Carpenters, bus drivers, accountants—not trained theologians. It can be tempting to think that God has not given us everyday people any special spiritual gifts. But the truth is He has given each of us a unique gift to use to tell other about Him. He uses us in our different professions to witness like missionaries in different cultures. Carpenters know how to talk with carpenters like Koreans know how to talk to Koreans.

Bezalel could have walked away. He could have said, “No way, I’ll just mess it up and God will be angry with me.” Or, “I’ll do my best and nobody will like it.” Instead he stepped up to the challenge. Will we be willing to go all out for God? Are we willing to invest the gifts, spiritual or practical, to show off God and His glory?

Father God, some of us have been hearing You call us to use a gift You’ve given to witness for You, but we’re stalling, hoping You won’t push us to hard. Others are struggling to find the gift that You’ve given and are wondering how we will use it for You once we find it. Send Your spirit to give us the courage and wisdom to really shine for You this week. Amen.