Take a moment to read the entire chapter of Exodus 39 before reading the devotional below.
In today’s chapter, we see the completion of the work that God instructed the people to do. The Tabernacle is built according to his specifications, with everything laid out and crafted exactly as he said. In addition, the priestly garments are woven, with stones placed on the shoulders to represent the tribes of Israel. Aaron as the head priest will wear a gold medallion that reads, “Holy to the Lord.”
The Bible does not say how long it took to complete the Tabernacle and the priests’ garments, but I noticed the phrase “with great skill and care” a few times. Bezalel hammers out sheets of gold so thin he can make thread out of it. That’s not a quick project in and of itself, nevermind the entire project start to finish. (And I don’t know too many builders who can also embroider… this is one talented guy!)
Here’s your freedom for today: God gives you permission to slow down. We Americans tend to want to rush projects and we value mass production over a slowly handcrafted item. It’s cheaper, it’s easier, and it makes us feel more productive to produce a lot of “stuff.” We are disconnected from things that take a long time, such as growing our own food or building our own houses. God values good workmanship and excellence, not speed or high productivity rates. Take your time and be diligent at your work. It may not make you a YouTube sensation, but it will develop your character and godliness.