Exodus 38 - Steve Wiggins Daily Devotional

“He made the bronze basin and its stand from the bronze mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.” Exodus 38:8

There is a notion among certain groups that Judaism (and Christianity for that matter) discriminates against women in ministry. This is not so. Just because the L-rd has chosen for men to serve in certain ministry roles, doesn’t mean that He has judged that women cannot minister. By no means should His character be brought on trial!

In addition, there is no language anywhere in Scripture indicating that women are inferior in any way intellectually or spiritually to men. “Roles of service in the congregation” is simply one of those cases in life where G_d has made a judgment and we are called to honor it, regardless of feelings or cultural/social customs.

A few chapters ago, it was pointed out that women played an important role in constructing the Tabernacle.

“Every skilled woman spun yarn with her hands and brought it: blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. And all the women whose hearts were moved spun the goat hair by their skill.” Exodus 35:25-26

In addition, women contributed what must have been the bulk of the gold and fine metals. I say this because it was mostly jewelry that was melted-down to make the tabernacle articles.

“Both men and women came; all who had willing hearts brought brooches, earrings, rings, necklaces, and all kinds of gold jewelry – everyone who waved a presentation offering of gold to the L_rd….” Exodus 35:22-24

An interesting thing about the women, (who served at the Tent of Meeting’s entrance) donating mirrors, is the profound message it sends: The closer a woman gets to the L_rd, the less concerned she is with her outer appearance.

“Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the L_rd will be praised. Give her the reward of her labor, and let her works praise her at the city gates.” Proverbs 31:30-31

While the L_rd has prescribed specific roles for people in His Kingdom, try not to concentrate on someone else’s role. Focus rather, on the fact that the G_d of all creation has designed a role, specifically for YOU. Now, go seek it.

Blessings,
~Steve Wiggins, Associate Leader, Worship Leader
Shuvah Yisrael
Daily Devotional, Tuesday, April 8, 2014