Exodus 31

The Explanation

High on a mountain stood Moses. Very high, and very still. God was talking to Moses.

"Moses," said God. "I have a man for you. His name is Bezalel." God smiled. "I filled Bezalel with wisdom. He can work with gold. He can work with silver. He can carve wood, so soft and smooth."

"I have another man too," said God. "His name is Oholiab. He can help Bezalel."

Their hands would make a special tent for God. A table. A gold lamp, shining bright. And two stone tablets, waiting to be filled.

What Does This Mean?

Bezalel and Oholiab were not kings. They were not loud or important. They were just good with their hands.

But God saw them. God knew their names. God said, "I filled him with wisdom." Not their own wisdom. God's wisdom, poured in, like water into a cup.

Then God said something else to Moses.

"Six days you may work," said God. "Six busy days, with hammers and thread and paint. But the seventh day, that day is different. That day is for resting. Quiet resting, holy resting."

God rested too, once. After making the whole sky, the whole earth, the sun, the sea, everything. On the seventh day, God rested. And was refreshed.

The Common Thread

God gives good gifts. He gave Bezalel busy, clever hands. He gave the seventh day quiet, restful hours. Work and rest, both from God.

Later, Jesus would say, "Come to me, and rest." Jesus is like that seventh day. Not far away, and stony, but warm and near. Jesus gives rest that never runs out.

Moses came down the mountain, holding two stone tablets. God's own finger had written on them. Carried carefully, down the long, steep path.

For You

What can your hands do? Can they build a tower of blocks? Can they stir pancake batter? Can they hug someone tight?

God gave you those hands. He filled you with something too, just like Bezalel. And after busy hands, and busy feet, and a busy day, there comes bedtime. Quiet, soft, resting time. That rest is a gift from God.

Talk About It

What is something fun your hands can make? What do you like best about resting at the end of the day?

Praying Together

Dear God, Thank You for my hands. Thank You for busy days. Thank You for quiet nights. Help me rest, safe and warm. Amen.