“I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship.” – Exodus 31:3-5
This passage in Exodus is God’s instruction to Moses regarding co-laborers Bezalel and Oholiab, Bezalel’s helper. Have you ever heard of Bezalel or Oholiab? I hadn’t until I read this in Scripture today. Most of us recognize the names of Moses and Aaron (spokesman for Moses and first High Priest). Yet, if I read further that God gave skill to all the craftsmen to make everything He commanded them to make. (31:6) These guys were special—special enough to be mentioned in God’s recording of history.
These workers were hand-picked, chosen by God, for a special task of building a tabernacle for a center of worship for the Israelites after they escaped Egypt and the wicked King Pharaoh. When God calls, He equips—that goes for you and for me too. Whatever your talent…maybe you work with stones or wood. Some sew quilts or knit soft baby sweaters. Your skills may fall in the numbers category or words. In my case, I write. I write so others can read my words and hopefully be strengthened and blessed. This creative spirit is part of our heritage and dare not be wasted or taken for granted.
“Nurturing our creativity is part of our responsibility as stewards of God’s good gifts.” (Emilie Barnes) Let’s go out today and find ways to nurture that God-given creativity!
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