Well, I think we’re down to the final two days of Exodus.
Most of the last few chapters are reiterations of the commands that God gave to Moses in the building of the tabernacle.
But one thing that struck me here is the heart of the people.
God said, “Only those whose hearts move them should give and serve for the making of the tabernacle.”
God didn’t want anyone to give or serve out of compulsion. He wanted them to do so because they wanted to.
And the people did so. In fact, they ultimately gave so much, that they had to be restrained from giving more.
That’s how the church should be. People should be giving and serving, not because they have to, but out of the joy in their hearts that God has given them.
Paul wrote to the Corinthians,
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7).
This verse is talking about giving, but the same could also be said about serving God.
God doesn’t want you to serve him because you have to, but because you want to.
And if you’re giving or serving because you feel you have to, not only are you missing out on the joy of giving and serving, but what you’re offering will not be accepted by God.
What kind of heart are you giving from? What kind of heart are you serving from?
Are you giving and serving hoping that others are watching you, and thinking what a great Christian you are?
Are you giving or serving because you feel you have to in order to be a good Christian?
Or are you so joyous about the life that God has given you, that you give and serve willingly?
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 