INTRODUCTION

The Israelites Build the Tabernacle

Bible Point:

We can all serve God.

Key Verse:

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).

Big Picture:

Practice serving God with whatever you have.

The Israelites Build the Tabernacle

Exodus 35:4-36:38

You might feel ready to grow up. Maybe you are tired of being treated like a little kid and wish you had the same freedom and challenges teenagers seem to have. Wanting to feel important and capable is normal. At the same time, big opportunities do not always just appear. Sometimes you have to step forward and take initiative. This week, look for ways to use your gifts in meaningful ways. Offer to help. Take responsibility. Try something new. God has given you talents for a reason, and you are not too young to use them in important ways.

PLANTING THE SEED

So picture this: You’re an Israelite in the desert with thousands of other Israelites. Then Moses calls you all together and basically tells you God wants you to build a traveling church. A church? in the desert? Well, not exactly. Actually a Tabernacle, which is a portable tent used for worship. And what a tent it was! Beautiful carved and cast furniture. Elaborately woven curtains to cover the wood poles holding up the tent. Where did God find people to make such beautiful pieces for the Tabernacle? God had already gifted the Israelites with incredible skill. So God had Moses organize everything so each person’s gift was used in just the right way. And God knows people today are just as talented when it comes to serving God!

• So what are some gifts you can share with God?

• How will you use those gifts?

FAMILY FUN

Work together to build a giant ice-cream sundae or a pizza. Before you start, assign each person at least one unique job. While you enjoy the fruits of your labor, talk about what each person contributes to the family and how the family would be different if someone weren’t there to contribute. 

READY, SET, GROW!

• Use one of your unique skills or talents to serve God this week.

• Give one of your belongings to your church so it can be given to someone who needs it more than you do.

• If you’ve had a unique experience, use it to serve God. Maybe you’ve lived in a foreign country, so you can help coordinate a service project to send food or school supplies to that country.