Our Daily Bread: Voices of FaithSample

God-Given Gifts

He has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding. -Exodus 35:31

Henry Ossawa Tanner, the first African American artist known internationally, inspired others by using all of his gifts. Despite overt racism and professional obstacles during the nineteenth century, Tanner didn’t let that cripple him from displaying his God-given abilities.

Henry’s paintings Resurrection of Lazarus and Daniel in the Lion’s Den received international recognition in Paris. His Christian upbringing likely influenced him to paint what he is best known for: biblical scenes.

The Holy Spirit gave skills to chosen servants during the construction of the tabernacle of God “to make artistic designs” (Exodus 35:32), empowering them to excel in using various materials to complete the assignment God had given them.

The Holy Spirit also gave the tabernacle workers—and gives to us—the ability to empower others: “he has given both [Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah] and Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others” (v. 34).

The Holy Spirit continues to equip God’s people with gifts to accomplish tasks we’re called to perform.

God chose Henry Ossawa Tanner to enrich the world with his artistry and to pass skills on to new generations. Tanner shared what God gave to him, including with young African American artists.

His life and works encourage us to resist any oppression and discrimination that would keep us from pursuing the use of our gifts while acknowledging our God.

Roslyn Yilpet

Who in your life and community reveals God’s artistic gifting? How can you pray for their encouragement?

Holy Spirit, thank You for giving me and others various gifts to be used for God’s glory.