Greater Impact
Read This Week: Exodus 36
Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: “No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary.” And so the people were restrained from bringing more, because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work. All those who were skilled among the workers made the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, with cherubim woven into them by expert hands. – Exodus 36:6-8 NIV
Exodus 36 is a powerful chapter highlighting the construction of the Tabernacle, the sacred dwelling place for God among His people that has been spoken about so much throughout the book. This particular passage not only reveals once again the extraordinary craftsmanship of people like Bezalel and Oholiab but also provides a good lesson for us on generosity, stewardship, and excellence in serving God. These are recurring themes in this section of Exodus and ones that we, as believers, can always use as reminders in our Christian walks.
In verses 3-7, Moses called for offerings to support the construction of the Tabernacle, and the people responded well with an outpouring of generosity. They gave so much that the artisans had to tell Moses to stop collecting contributions just like they had before (v. 6-7). As we saw last week, willing hearts among God’s people matter. The Israelites gave freely and abundantly, demonstrating that generosity flows from a willing heart. Our giving, whether of our time, talent, or resources, should be motivated by worship of the Lord and love for Him and others, not obligation (2 Corinthians 9:7).
God provides more than enough, so when we trust Him with our resources, He multiplies them beyond what is needed. This challenges us to move from a scarcity mindset to one of faith and abundance. Moses discerned that they had received more than required. In today’s world, where excess is often celebrated, wise leaders know when to stop accumulating and start stewarding well. Christians must seek and listen to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and recognize this and when to use our overflow to glorify God and bless others.
The first part of the chapter and a large part of the rest of it brings to life the excellence in skill and calling and the way the Lord gifts his people to serve others and bring honor to Himself. Bezalel, Oholiab, and other skilled workers were appointed to construct the Tabernacle according to God’s instructions. They didn’t cut corners or rush the process; they built with precision and devotion. Whether in business, ministry, or personal pursuits, doing our work with excellence reflects God’s nature (Colossians 3:23).
This is an example of how calling and gifting work together. God specifically chose and equipped Bezalel and Oholiab for this task. When we align our skills with our divine calling, we serve with greater impact. The artisans followed God’s blueprint exactly. Likewise, small acts of faithfulness in our work and relationships shape the larger picture of His plan in our respective walks, vocations, and areas of service. A life of generosity and excellence fulfills God’s purposes in ways beyond what we can imagine and brings greater impact from our lives to the kingdom.
We are called to give freely, serve diligently, and steward wisely, knowing that when we offer our best to God, He does more than we could ever ask or think. As many times before in this journey to freedom study, we are motivated in our lives by the Scriptures to be generous with our resources or talents. We are encouraged to serve with excellence in the work God has called us to do. We are exhorted to trust that God provides more than enough when we give willingly. Let’s strive to live with the same heart of generosity and dedication that built the Tabernacle, creating something that glorifies God and blesses others.