February 13

In Exodus 35-37, the Israelites respond to God’s command to build the Tabernacle with willing and generous hearts. Skilled artisans like Bezalel and Oholiab use their God-given talents to create beautiful and sacred items for worship. The people bring so many offerings that Moses has to tell them to stop (Exodus 36:6). Their obedience and joyful giving reflect their renewed devotion to God after their earlier failure with the golden calf. This passage reminds us that when we give our time, talents, and resources to God, it becomes an act of worship and draws us closer to Him.  

Psalm 26 is a prayer of David, declaring his integrity and trust in the Lord. David invites God to examine his heart and mind, confident in his walk with Him. He expresses his love for God’s house, saying, “Lord, I love the house where You live, the place where Your glory dwells” (Psalm 26:8). Like David, we are called to live lives of integrity and devotion, seeking God’s presence and delighting in His glory.  

Philippians 4 offers encouragement for living with joy and peace, regardless of circumstances. Paul urges believers to rejoice in the Lord, pray with thanksgiving, and focus on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy. He assures us that “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). Paul also shares the secret to contentment: trusting in Christ to provide strength in every situation (Philippians 4:13).  

These passages remind us that serving God with joyful hearts, walking in integrity, and trusting Him in all things lead to a life filled with His peace and presence. The Israelites’ generosity, David’s confidence in God’s justice, and Paul’s unshakable joy all flow from a deep relationship with the Lord. When we align our lives with His will, focusing on His glory and faithfulness, we experience the peace and contentment that only He can give.  

As we go about our days, let us offer our work, relationships, and resources to God as acts of worship. Let us seek His presence and rejoice in Him, trusting that His peace will guard our hearts and minds no matter what challenges we face.  

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