“And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.”
Context:The book of Exodus recounts the story of the Israelites’ escape from slavery in Egypt under the leadership of Moses. After their escape, God called Moses to Mount Sinai and gave him detailed instructions for building the tabernacle, which was to be a portable sanctuary where the Israelites could worship God during their journey through the wilderness.
Bezaleel’s Appointment:In Exodus 31:2, God specifically calls out Bezaleel by name and appoints him to be the chief craftsman for the construction of the tabernacle. Bezaleel was from the tribe of Judah, and God chose him for this task because He filled him with His Spirit, wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and skill in all manner of workmanship.
Divine Enablement:This verse highlights an essential aspect of biblical service: it is not merely human effort but divinely enabled work. Bezaleel was not chosen for his skill or expertise alone; it was God who filled him with the necessary abilities to fulfill this role. This demonstrates that when God calls someone to a task, He also equips them with the required gifts and talents.
The Holy Spirit’s Role:The phrase “filled him with the spirit of God” emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit’s role in the lives of God’s people. In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit would come upon specific individuals for specific tasks, while in the New Testament era, the Holy Spirit indwells believers permanently. Bezaleel’s craftsmanship and artistic skills were not just a result of natural talent; they were empowered by the Spirit of God.
Wisdom, Understanding, and Knowledge:These qualities are often associated with divine insight and discernment. Bezaleel didn’t only receive skills in craftsmanship but also the wisdom to apply his abilities effectively. God’s wisdom transcends human understanding, and when we serve Him, we should seek His guidance and rely on His understanding rather than our own.
Application:Exodus 31:3 teaches us that God calls and equips people for specific tasks according to His purpose. It also reminds us that whatever talents or skills we possess, they are gifts from God. We should use them to honor and serve Him, seeking His guidance and relying on His Spirit’s empowering.
In summary, Exodus 31:3 reveals how God chose Bezaleel and filled him with His Spirit, wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and craftsmanship for the purpose of constructing the tabernacle. This verse emphasizes the divine enablement in our service to God and reminds us of the importance of seeking His guidance and relying on His wisdom in all that we do.
