What is Lacking?

The materials were sufficient for them to do all the work. There was more than enough. - Exodus 36:7

When Moses, under God's instruction, put out the call for the Israelites to bring in the necessary materials to construct the tabernacle, they responded. In fact, they brought in more than was needed and eventually had to be told to stop giving. Amazing, huh?

Perhaps in a day when it seems there is not enough being given to accomplish God's work, we could learn something from this story. For example:

1. If we want folks to give, then we better be real certain that God is directing the work. I am a firm believer that God always funds what He wants done.

2. We need to be sure to always communicate exactly what needs to be funded. People will often give when they know exactly how the money will be used. If goals are clear and achievement is measurable, people tend to respond.

3. When the financial goal is met, we should celebrate, give God the glory (again, it was His plan), and release the people to give elsewhere. If the financial goal has not been met because leadership has not accomplished numbers 1 and 2, then to continue to stand there with your hand out is just thievery.

In other words, the problem is rarely a lack resources. It is more often a lack of leadership.

Honor bespeaks worth. Confidence begets trust. Service brings satisfaction. Cooperation proves the quality of leadership. - J. C. Penney