You are to speak to all who are specially skilled, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, so that they may make Aaron’s garments to set him apart to minister as my priest.
Exodus 28:3 NET
The topic of spiritual gifts is raised periodically. When it is, we often look to 1 Corinthians 12 or one of the other passages that refer to the gifts given by the Holy Spirit. But many read those passages and come away with the mistaken impression that they have no spiritual gifts.
But just what is a spiritual gift? Is it just preaching, teaching, speaking in tongues, or one of the other abilities listed by Paul? Or is it more than that?
This passage from Exodus, and a few others like it, suggests that spiritual gifting is not limited to the abilities Paul listed. In the 28th chapter of Exodus, God instructed Moses to make the priest’s garments. Making these garments would involve sewing, embroidery, and setting gemstones.
Those recruited for this task were especially gifted as artisans whom God had filled with the spirit of wisdom. They had what we might call a natural ability, but one that God enhanced and used. They were spiritually gifted.
What natural abilities do you have? Are you:
- A crafter?
- A techie?
- A builder?
- A cook?
- One who loves children?
- One who can talk to anyone?
- Or any of a multitude of other abilities?
Whatever your ability, God can, and will, use it in his kingdom’s work if you give it to him. And he will give you the spirit of wisdom to effectively use your abilities in his service.
