God in All Professions

Instruct all the skilled craftsmen whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom… Exodus 28:3 (NLT)

Reading the chapters in Exodus about the design of the tabernacle and its furnishing, to be honest, I didn’t find it interesting. After a while I asked myself – why is this in the bible? Then it hit me – God showing us that He oversees every profession!

In Exodus 31:2-3 God said, “Look, I have specifically chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.  I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts.” It shows God’s interest in our professions.

In the book of Genesis God said, “Be fruitful and multiply”. Before He gave that command, He gave man everything he needed to live and survive on earth. These were provided in the form of the sun, plants, trees, animals, precious minerals, water, you name it. Everything we have today and everything we are going to have, have been and will be provided from the resources God has given. He didn’t stop there, He also gave us the wisdom to produce different things from these resources – electricity, food, clothes, medicines, instruments of all kinds and so on.

In God’s dictionary (not that He needs one), I don’t think one profession is more important than another. I marvel at stories where a practising lawyer or doctor, packs it all up and starts a career in raising livestock or art. Surprisingly, they are happy and find fulfilment in the career change. In the process, they might even turn the career on its head and produce something unique.

This pandemic has shown us that all professions depend on each other. From those in farming to the shops, schools, hospitals, offices and even the government. In 1 Corinthians 12:18-25, Paul emphasises the importance of every part of the body for it to function in unity. In the same way, God has given professions to meet all human needs, they each enable a town, city and country to function successfully as a unit.

He also enables everyone to develop and progress within their given profession. It doesn’t depend on whether you believe in God or not, “…I see very clearly that God shows no favouritism” Acts 10:34 (NLT). We are all His creation and He uses us as He pleases to display His glory.

So, no matter what profession you are in, God knows about it more than you do, and your profession is important. Acknowledge Him in it and ask Him to fill you with wisdom to be the best you can be for His glory. Just like Solomon did, “Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well…” 1 Kings 3:9 (NLT), God was pleased with his request and granted it.

James also said, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” James 1:5 (NLT).

Stay blessed,

Lara