February 10th

Exodus 29:1-31:18

Moses continued his preparations for the Tabernacle. He was commanded by God to consecrate Aaron and his sons for the work of the priesthood. To consecrate means “to set apart” or “to dedicate.” Aaron and his descendants would forever provide spiritual leadership in the area of the sacrificial system, so it was important that they be “holy before the Lord.” That way the sacrifices of the people would not be tainted by the men who were mediating for them.

Moses was also given instructions for the altar of incense, which would stand before the Holy of Holies. Then, God discussed with Moses the anointing oil, the ingredients for the special incense, and more details about how to observe the Sabbath.

However, the comments that I thought were most interesting today were those concerning the craftsmen who constructed the Tabernacle. God said, “Look, I have chosen Bezalel... I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, intelligence, and skill in all kinds of crafts...” (31:2, 3). Bezalel took the lead in building the Tabernacle and its furnishings. God also called Oholiab to be his assistant (31:6).

These appointments are exciting to me because it gives evidence that God equips people to do His work. In fact, He said, “I have given special skill to all the naturally talented craftsmen so that they can make all the things I have instructed you to make...” (31:6).

In the New Testament, each believer is blessed by the Spirit of God with certain gifts or abilities (Rom. 12:6; 1 Cor. 12:7, 11, 18; Eph. 4:11-13). The spiritual gifts are not given to us so that we can boast of them or use them for our own selfish ambitions, but so that we can use them in the service of the Lord in the Church.

However, many Christians misunderstand the spiritual gifts, do not know or recognize their own gift(s), and, therefore, fail to use them. God provides spiritual gifts to be used in His Church for the benefit of His people. Thus, when His people fail to identify their gifts or neglect to exercise them in their local churches, the Church body suffers. It is does not function the way that it should.

Daily Reflection

Have you identified your spiritual gift(s)? If so, what are they? If not, start here (read Rom. 12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-11; 1 Pet. 4:10, 11).

How are you using your gift(s) in the local church? How have you seen God bless the use of your gifts to encourage other believers?

You need the Church, and the Church needs you. If you are not using your gift, then the rest of the body suffers. Be a good steward and don’t let it go to waste. He has given you the gift of His choice, to be used for His purposes. Make sure to use it to the best of your ability!

BiAY.org | Day 41 — 324 Days to Go