Exodus 35 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
Think upon the skills that were required of a master craftsman. Obviously, the person would be gifted in craftsmanship, but according to Scripture, that trait is not enough. Craftsmanship alone has a tendency to produce works that glorify self. There was something else noted here in Exodus 35.
“And He has filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding and in knowledge and in all craftsmanship; 32 to make designs for working in gold and in silver and in bronze, 33 and in the cutting of stones for settings and in the carving of wood, so as to perform in every inventive work.
Exodus 35:31-33 NASB
There was wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. These words are important. To only have a skill without these traits was ordinary. However, to be filled with the Spirit with wisdom, understanding and knowledge fueled the particular skill or trade to the glory of God. We know these are important traits because they are assigned to many other leaders in Scripture.
Solomon was described as having wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in 1 Kings 4. Huram was described the similarly 1 Kings 7. Daniel and his associates were given wisdom, understanding, and knowledge to live and thrive during their exile. The Book of Proverbs speaks all about these traits, and Paul sums them up in the New Testament in his prayer to Ephesus.
…that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.
Ephesians 1:17 NASB
So, we must ask ourselves, do we seek these aspects of Christ daily? Do we strive more for Godly wisdom, knowledge, and understanding or are we instead motivated to climb the ladder of success in a particular line of work? Glory to God or glory to self?
Well, whatever you do, whether you eat or drink, do it all for God’s glory.
1 Corinthians 10:31 GNB