The Lord's Contribution
The materials and workmanship of the tabernacle or tent of meeting all came from God's people. Everyone pitched in to give what they were led to give and to do what they had skill to do. It was a beautiful sight to see the Lord's work done by His people. The people gave the offering of gold, silver, and materials, as their hearts were stirred and their spirits were moved. We would call it a free-will offering or a love offering today. The result was that what they gave was the Lord's contribution, and it was far more than enough. (Exodus 35:21; 36:5) Let me explain.
The Bible is very clear that all of the gold and silver belongs to the Lord. In fact, all of the things we have belongs to the Lord. He just gives them to us to manage or steward for Him. Therefore, when God wants to make a contribution to missions or any special ministry project, that gift comes from us. If we have tender obedient hearts, God can and will communicate His will to us. We pray and God stirs our hearts and moves our spirits to give a specific amount. Then, when all of God's people do that, there is more than enough, because it comes from God's abundance.
Just think of the blessings that come to good stewards as the Lord rewards their obedience to give His contribution. However, the opposite is also true. Think of how disappointed God is with those who do not use His money in the way that pleases Him. He is not inclined to give them more of His money, if they are not going to spend it wisely.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Exodus 39-40 and Leviticus 1-2.
The Bible is very clear that all of the gold and silver belongs to the Lord. In fact, all of the things we have belongs to the Lord. He just gives them to us to manage or steward for Him. Therefore, when God wants to make a contribution to missions or any special ministry project, that gift comes from us. If we have tender obedient hearts, God can and will communicate His will to us. We pray and God stirs our hearts and moves our spirits to give a specific amount. Then, when all of God's people do that, there is more than enough, because it comes from God's abundance.
Just think of the blessings that come to good stewards as the Lord rewards their obedience to give His contribution. However, the opposite is also true. Think of how disappointed God is with those who do not use His money in the way that pleases Him. He is not inclined to give them more of His money, if they are not going to spend it wisely.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Exodus 39-40 and Leviticus 1-2.