EXODUS 37 THEY CAME TO WORK They left what they had been doing normally in the day by day activities of life to do this work of the Lord. It is true that whatever we do we are to do as unto the Lord. When these special times come it is important to be there and participate in the work right from the start. Such an opportunity for service in this way may only come once in a lifetime. We never know if we miss this time whether there will be another, or whether we will be allowed by the Lord to be involved in such a work again.
Bezaleel was the man of God's choosing to head up this work so his name is associated with every task. Some who labored with him could have thought, "Why is he the only one named." Leadership isn't only involved in the successful accomplishment of a work, but is also responsible for the failures. A wise leader of people refuses self-exaltation even though he may be credited with the success. Usually you will hear from a godly leader, "God blessed the effort and gave the needed help and power. TO GOD BE ALL THE GLORY."
Bezaleel started where God did, with the ark. Then moved on to the other furnishings and the work moved ahead smoothly and successfully. It is always important that we commit ourselves to God's work in God's way. The Holy Spirit reveals to us an orderly way to do God's work, and the people to give various responsibilities to. Those who are willing-hearted would show up for work each day and Bezaleel was able to delegate tasks to be done and give the instructions as to how to do them. Willing workers may not be able to see at first what is the value of what they are doing, but they have a right to expect those who lead God's people in God's work, to give clear guidance in a way they can understand. "It is required in stewards that a man be found faithful." The stewardship of Bezaleel would not only have to do with the use of the material needed and given, but also in the wise direction and use of manpower.
As each day passed, the labor going on in different places would be evaluated by Bezaleel and Aholiab. As each project neared completion, from the large pieces of furniture, the boards, fence posts and curtains, to the small pins and spoons, they would have to be inspected to be sure they met the Lord's specifications. Any work we do, small or great, is a reflection on the One we serve. Those areas of our life in which we ourselves or the work we engage in represent Christ, need to be carefully examined to be sure it is right.
When we come together at the Lord's Supper, we are instructed to examine ourselves. "Let a man examine himself and so let him eat." There is a reason for this. To participate in such a holy matter in an unworthy manner, not only negates anything I might offer, but it will affect all of those present. A crooked staff for carrying the table of showbread would stand out because of its imperfections. It wouldn't suit the perfections of everything else around it. A careless approach to God in prayer, a carelessly chosen song suited only to one person casts a discordant note on the whole proceedings of a congregation of God's people.
Those who lead God's people need to teach ahead of time, either publicly or privately, the appropriate way to participate in the things of God. The doctrine of the priesthood of all believers does not leave each person the right to do what they want in the service and worship of the Lord. Our commitment as priests who participate, is to follow the scriptural pattern. In the building of the Tabernacle, those who showed up for work each day were expected to do things for the Lord's dwelling place according to the pattern He gave Moses. The leadership of Bezaleel and Aholiab in turn was to be followed by those who put their hand to the work.
To the work! With willing hearts filled with anticipation Eyes bright, hands ready, bodies already set apart in consecration Other things are of lesser importance - this demand all of my concentration What I am making is to be done for the Lord!
To the work! Don't wait until the time is more convenient Nor dare to insert into the work I do what I think is more important Bend every effort to do what I have been given as God intended it This work is to be done for the Lord!
To the work! Start early while the mind is fresh and bright Commit this work to God at the start to do it right Even though I may not know the reason, work by faith not sight The big picture is known by the Lord!
To the work! Others have their work to do and I have mine It isn't up to me to make changes to save some time If this is done right it will join easily to the next piece just fine The pattern came from the All-knowing Lord!
To the work! It may be a psalm, a hymn or prayer I will have nothing to contribute if I'm not there Let me plan what the Spirit gives with holy care This gathering is unto the Lord!
To the work! The Gospel with its message to those in need The teaching of the Word souls of others to feed To the ministry to the saints whose call we heed This work is not only to men but to the Lord!
"Father, today I am very conscious of a need that I can help fulfill. Give guidance to Thy servant as to how best to seek to meet that need I pray. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen."