Suggested Bible Reading: Exodus 31-32
Devotional Thought:
Now that directions had been given for the construction of the Tabernacle, God appointed the workmen who would have the responsibility of carrying out the work. It should be noted that He did not only give the detailed instructions but He also determined who would be His workmen. The call was very specific; there was no possibility of misunderstanding for the two men are named. “I have called by name…” (31:3) The word “call” means “to summon”, “to invite”, or “to commission”. When God calls us, it is a gracious invitation, but it also is a summons to obey and a commission to fulfill. Too many Christians read their Bible and see suggestions rather than commands. It is our heart that determines the difference for God. If our whole reason for living were that God would be pleased and glorified, then embracing His commands with enthusiasm and fulfillment would be natural. Our interpretation of His commands is either seen as restrictive and limiting or as enlightening and exciting. It ought to excite us to learn of what best reflects the purposes and Person of God. It ought to be our privilege to participate and obey. God does not need us, but how gracious of Him to include us in His plan. Therefore, God calls us to service and strategically places us in His harvest field. The work to which believers are called today includes that of laboring in the local church. Just as the tabernacle was the sanctuary, which was God’s dwelling place, so the church is the place, where the Lord has chosen as His vehicle to carry out the work of this dispensation. It is necessary that all are workers, for, as with the tabernacle, it is an honor to be involved in His work. Gideon was threshing wheat when the angel of the Lord appeared to him and addressed him as a “mighty man of valor.” “If the Lord be with us”, exclaimed Gideon, “why then is all this befallen us?” (Judges 6:11-14) Little did he realize that the problem he highlighted did have an answer, and that he was the answer! At times God’s servants can identify the problem but fail to realize that there is an answer, and it may be that the one who recognizes the need is the one whose work it is to meet that need. So, let the lesson be stated again. God can do all that He desires without the involvement of His people, but He chooses to use workers so that they will learn the joy of His service and gain rewards for faithful work carried out.
Prayer Requests:
• Lord, please help me to serve you with gladness. To always come into your presence with a heart of thanksgiving.
• Lord, thank you for giving me a chance to show you how much I love you and appreciate your program.
• Lord, thank you for your design of the local church. Please give me wisdom to properly motivate, equip, and encourage those at Faith Baptist Church to serve you faithfully.