Bezalel and Oholiab the Craftsmen
Our third lesser-known Bible character from Hight C. Moore's Points For Emphasis is Bezalel the Craftsman.
In Exodus 31 we read of Bezalel's appointment and gifting: "the LORD said to Moses, "See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills — to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts. Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, to help him."
A Man Filled With Skill and the Spirit
Notice the traits that this man has, for God to be able to use him! Not only is he skilled at particular things, but he is filled with the Spirit of God.
If you're seeking to be used by God, in His service, in some way, ask yourself two questions: first, am I filled with the Spirit? True fruitfulness for God requires the Spirit's indwelling in you.
But second, ask yourself, what am I skilled at? It's no good trying to do something you aren't skilled at, and thinking that the Spirit of God will make it work for you. If you can't sing, don't join your church's worship team! This is the very reason I am not involved in the maintenance and property matters at my church. I have zero skill in that area, and the Spirit of God in me is not going to suddenly change that. Instead, I am skilled at preaching, at pastoral care, and at music. So I focus on those, and I seek to equip others to use their abilities at our church, in their ways.
Bezalels and Oholiabs: Leading and Serving With Grace
Now, notice something else. God appoints Bezalel a helper. Oholiab is called to come alongside Bezalel in the work he is called to. Some more questions for us to consider today: am I willing to be helped by an Oholiab, as I do what God calls me to? Am I willing to be an Oholiab to somebody else's Bezalel, if God calls me to that?
Sometimes Bezalels don't want any help. Sometimes Oholiabs don't want to be helpers either; they want to be the main person, or they're just not interested.
Bezalels: be gentle and kind to your Oholiabs, would you, and accept their help with grace.
Ohos: be willing to help and serve under your Bezalel with grace, would you!
God will use us mightily, like He did those two men, if we assume our roles with grace and godliness.
One more thing: do your work as God commands! These men built the tabernacle exactly as God prescribed. Whatever you are called to do, do it with all your might, and to the glory of God. He will be glorified, and you will be satisfied, if you do what it His way.
Bezalel and Oholiab show that God uses people according to both their gifting and their willingness to work together. Identify where you are skilled, and either lead or serve with grace this week