“And they received of Moses all the offering, which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of the sanctuary, to make it withal. And they brought yet unto him free offerings every morning.”
In this verse, we find a remarkable example of the generosity and willingness of the Israelites to contribute to the construction of the tabernacle. Let’s break down the verse and explore its significance in context:
Receiving Moses’ Offering:The verse begins by stating that the skilled craftsmen and artisans received from Moses all the offerings that the children of Israel had brought. This refers to the donations and contributions the people willingly gave for the construction of the tabernacle. We can see that Moses played a pivotal role in collecting and presenting these offerings for the Lord’s work.
The Work of the Service of the Sanctuary:The offerings given by the Israelites were designated for the work of the service of the sanctuary. The “service of the sanctuary” refers to the construction, maintenance, and operation of the tabernacle, where the people would worship God and offer sacrifices. This work was crucial for the Israelites to fulfill their spiritual duties and maintain their relationship with God.
Free Offerings Every Morning:In addition to the initial offerings, the verse highlights that the people brought free offerings every morning. This phrase signifies the consistent and daily nature of their generosity. They willingly and freely gave what they could to support the construction of the tabernacle and the worship of God. Their dedication to providing these offerings on a daily basis demonstrates their commitment and love for God.
Key Lessons:
Willingness and Generosity:One of the central themes of this verse is the willingness and generosity displayed by the Israelites. They willingly gave their possessions for the work of God’s service, even providing free offerings daily. This teaches us the importance of having a willing heart and a generous spirit when it comes to supporting the work of God and advancing His kingdom.
Consistent and Faithful Giving:The phrase “free offerings every morning” also highlights the value of consistent and faithful giving. The Israelites didn’t offer their contributions as a one-time gesture; rather, they demonstrated a commitment to support the tabernacle daily. This shows the significance of regular and steadfast giving in our own lives, both in financial offerings and in other forms of service.
Supporting God’s Work:The construction of the tabernacle was a significant task in service to God. It required both skilled labor and financial resources. The willingness of the people to give was essential to fulfilling God’s plan for the tabernacle. This reminds us that supporting God’s work is a collective effort and that each individual’s contribution, no matter how big or small, can play a vital role in advancing His kingdom.
In conclusion, Exodus 36:3 teaches us about the beautiful aspects of willingness, generosity, and consistent giving. As we reflect on this verse, we can evaluate our own hearts and attitudes toward giving, serving, and supporting God’s work. May it inspire us to cultivate a spirit of willing and cheerful generosity, offering our resources and talents for the service of God and His kingdom.
