heaven that deserves a thought? If the forming of the shadows of divine truth was a just employment of supernatural skill, doubtless an exhibition of the substance may profitably engage all the talents that were ever confided to mortal man.]
To all, then, I would say,
1. Acknowledge God in all the talents you possess — [Not only Bezaleel and Aholiab, but all who were em- ployed in the different departments of the work, were taught of God. So, whatever furniture we have for the constructing of God's spiritual tabernacle, we have received it from the same heavenly source, and must ascribe the glory of it altogether to our God. Let this be borne in mind, and none will envy those who are endowed with richer talents than themselves, or despise those who are called to occupy a humbler post. The eye in the natural body vaunts not itself above the hand, nor the hand above the foot ; but each is satisfied with executing the work for which it is fitted and ordained : so let it be with us ; every one doing what God has called him to, and every one seeking the glory of God in all that he performs.]
2. Improve your talents for the end for which they have been committed to you —
[At the formation of the tabernacle, every one engaged, according to his ability, to expedite the work. Men, women, rulers, all accounted it their honour to be employed for Godh: and " so" we are told, " it became one tabernacle1." And who can say what the effect would be, if all, men, women, and rulers, engaged heartily in the work of God, and laboured to advance his glory in the world ? Beloved Brethren, let us not sit down in despair, because the work is too great and arduous. God can fit us for it, however ignorant we be ; and can bless us in it, however unequal we may be for the task assigned us. Only let it be said of every one amongst us, " He has done what he could," and we shall yet see glorious days amongst us ; and God will rear his tabernacle, and glorify himself, as in the days of old.
But, for this end, it is necessary that you " stir up your hearts ;" for, by nature, they are sadly averse to it. Nor need we fear that any exertions of ours will exceed the demand for them. The materials for the tabernacle, and the work, were soon supplied, when a whole nation were willing and active in the cause : but there is no fear that we shall have to bid you to cease either from your offerings or your labours k. The whole world is the tabernacle which you are to rear; and every soul within it is a vessel you are to form for God's
h Exod. xxxv. 21, 24, 25—27. { Exod. xxxvi. 13.
k Exod. xxxvi. 5 — 7.