Using Our Skills For God

Every skilled person to whom the Lord has given skill and ability… [is] to do the work just as the Lord has commanded. — Exodus 36:1

We sometimes forget that during most of His life Jesus was a carpenter, working with His hands among His neighbors in the town of Nazareth. “Isn’t this the carpenter?” some of His critics asked scornfully, implying that no mere carpenter could possibly be the promised Messiah (Mark 6:3).

Do you tend to downplay the work you do? “I’m only a housewife… I’m just a plumber…I simply teach school…I’m merely a clerk in a grocery store… I make my living as an accountant.”

But if God gave you that skill, and you are where He wants you to be, then your work is valuable and significant in His sight.

One other thought for you to ponder: What kind of a carpenter do you suppose Jesus was? Did the doors fall off His cabinets? Do you suppose He took shortcuts, or did just barely enough to get by? No, of course not. The Bible says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23).

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Your Turn

Think about Dr. Graham’s questions above. Do you have a job or role that you’ve downplayed? In what area of your life do you feel newly exhorted to work at with excellence as unto the Lord? Please share your thoughts with us. We would love to hear from you! ~ Devotionals Daily