Lessons from Bezalel and Oholiab

Bezalel, whose name meant "in the shadow (protection) of God," played an important role in the craftmanship of the tabernacle. Oholiab’s name means “Father’s Tent.” The phrase “Tent of Meeting” has appeared many times in these last chapters. It is not a coincidence that the names of Bezalel and Oholiab are so similar in meaning.

While they did not wage war like Joshua or lead a nation like David, God used them for a specific purpose. All of us have some skill God can use. You may not be a preacher or leader, but that does not mean you are unnecessary in God’s kingdom. Building and making things for God’s glory is a valid ministry. What skill do you have that God could use?

1. God is the one who calls people to specific roles in the Kingdom.

God Himself told Moses that He had called Bezalel for this precious task and that he had assigned Oholiab to assist him in the task. God was so intent on specifically calling them that He would even name their father and grandfather, so that there is no confusion.

2. God is the one who enables and empowers the called to do what He has called them to do.

God had given Moses, the leader of the Israelites, intricate designs for how He wanted His tabernacle created. As Bezalel co-labored with God, he and others working with him produced excellent results. The outcome was a tabernacle that not only met God’s specifications, but also displayed His vision.

God had detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle of Moses. These instructions were so detailed and required a high level of skill that only a skilled worker will be able to do them. And so, in order to see His instructions followed, He Himself enabled someone to be able to do what He wanted done. In this case, it was this man named Bezalel.

If God calls us to do something for Him, He will also be the one to teach us and prepare us for the task He's called us to do. And yes, He will also provide for it.

3. Bezalel, was not only a craftsman and a teacher, but also a generalist.

He was skilled in many different crafts, while others were called to specific tasks, such as being engravers or designers. “God has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them skilled workers and designers” (Exodus 35:35). Being a generalist gave Bezalel the capability for being a good teacher for the specialists. No matter what you do, be sure and teach someone else how to do it. It is easy to get the “I’ll do it myself” mindset

4. Those who are called must give glory to God, not to themselves.

There were numerous craftsman who helped Bezalel and Oholiab who never get mentioned by name. They served and brought glory to God without their name ever being mentioned After the work on the tabernacle was finished, nowhere do we read that Bezalel basked in the praises of people. We don't read him being flattered by those who are looking at his finished work. We don't read him taking the glory that only belongs to God. We must be like that.

Application Questions:

The purpose of consecration was to be set apart for a purpose. In what ways do you recognize this truth in your daily life. Do you know your God given roles and responsibilities in the kingdom like Bezalel and Oholiab? In what ways can you tend to take glory for your accomplishments?

Quote:

“Jesus Christ has bought us with His blood, but, alas, He has not had His money's worth! He paid for ALL, and He has had but a fragment of our energy, time and earnings. By an act of consecration, let us ask Him to forgive the robbery of the past, and let us profess our desire to be henceforth utterly and only for Him - His slaves, owning no master other than Himself.” - F. B. Meyer

Prayer:

Lord, I consecrate myself to you today. As you fill my hand with the tasks you want me to do, help me to be faithful. Let me never look for recognition or fame but only your glory. Amen