Who comes to mind when you think of a person filled with the Spirit of God?
Perhaps it’s a public figure, like an evangelist of sorts. Maybe it’s someone widely known for their service and their love for God. Like Moses.
Moses had shaky beginnings in leadership. His role was very public—all Israel knew him (and all Egypt hated him) and looked to Moses for everything. Aaron’s role as high priest was also visible. Whenever Moses went up the mountain to meet with God, Aaron was left in charge. Joshua came to be recognized as Moses’ assistant and apprentice of sorts.
What about Bezalel and Oholiab? We don’t know their histories from birth or how they grew up. But when we meet them in the middle of a wilderness, the detail we do learn is powerful—they were filled with the Spirit of God.
Exodus 31 starts with “I have specifically chosen Bezalel… I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts. He is a master craftsman, expert in working with gold, silver, and bronze. He is skilled in engraving and mounting gemstones and in carving wood. He is a master at every craft! And I have personally appointed Oholiab… to be his assistant. Moreover, I have given special skill to all the gifted craftsmen so they can make all the things I have commanded you…”
Though unknown to the multitude, these men were very well known by God. Like Moses, Aaron, Joshua, and others, Bezalel and Oholiab were appointed by God for a great work. God didn’t wait until Canaan to use these artistic experts. Instead, they went to work right in the middle of nowhere.
What do you do well? God has gifted us with abilities that, when empowered by His Spirit, can be used for His service. Even in moments of uncertainty, God’s Spirit helps us right where we already are. We do not have to postpone serving God until we’ve reached our desired destination.
During the ‘CH_RCH needs U’ series, we’ve been exploring church ministries and our potential for service. There is space for everyone to take part, but we usually gravitate to familiar roles, to ministries we commonly do.
Can we try something new?
Let’s ask God to fill us with His Spirit so that we can be of service. Let’s ask God to destroy the limiting boxes of familiarity and comfort. Let’s ask Him to expand our perspectives, planting new goals and visions in our minds.
God doesn’t reserve His Spirit for certain positions or locations. God uses Spirit-filled people everywhere.
In the public eye, in the wilderness and everywhere in between.
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Written by Sabrina Jacques-Rowe
Communication Leader
Henderson Highway Church