“The LORD has gifted Bezalel, Oholiab, and the other skilled craftsmen with wisdom and ability to perform any task involved in building the sanctuary. Let them construct and furnish the Tabernacle, just as the LORD has commanded.”

Exodus 36:1 (NLT)

Years ago, I remember seeing the movie “Chariots of Fire” about Eric Liddell, the Scottish Christian who broke the world record in the 400 meter race and won the gold medal in 1924. God had given him a talent. He could run fast. But he was also a missionary to China. He served the Lord in both ways.

One of my favorite quotes in the movie comes from Sam Mussabini, the coach of the Jewish runner on the team, Harold Abrahams. “You can’t put in what God left out,” said Mussabini. The idea is that God alone is the dispenser of talents.

In Exodus 35, we see where God especially gifted Bezalel. He put into him the Spirit of God, in wisdom, understanding and knowledge in all manner of workmanship. He was the chief artisan to make all the articles of the tabernacle. And he was also skilled in teaching others (v. 34) so that he could share the load.

In the New Testament we are told:

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit…Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good…All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.”

1 Corinthians 12:4–11 (NIV)

To each one of us the Holy Spirit has given a spiritual gift. It isn’t to be kept for ourselves, but to be used for the common good, as God gives us ability. One of the most frustrating things in life is to try to do something in your own strength when God has not gifted you to do it. “You can’t put in what God left out.” On the other hand, the greatest joy in life is to discover your spiritual gift and use it to serve God and others for His glory.

Do you know your gift? Are you offering yourself to the Lord in loving obedience to serve Him with it?

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