When God provides, it’s never random.
In Exodus 12, right before the Israelites left Egypt, God did something strange: He told them to ask their Egyptian masters for gold, silver, and clothing. And the Egyptians gave it, willingly. Slaves walked out with wealth. Why?
Not for shopping sprees. There were no malls in the desert.
It was for something holy.
Later, in Exodus 25, God commands them to build a tabernacle, a dwelling place for His presence. What did they use? The gold and silver given to them on their way out of bondage. The very wealth that once belonged to their oppressors became the material used to worship God.
But not all of it.
In Exodus 32, we see the other side: they melted that same gold to create a golden calf, a false god to worship when they got impatient. The same provision became either a platform for God’s presence or a monument to idolatry.
God provides, but how we steward it determines whether it becomes worship or distraction.
Fast forward to the New Testament.
When the Magi arrived, they brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Expensive gifts, especially for a poor carpenter and his young family. Why would a baby need gold?
He wouldn’t. But his earthly father would.
Soon after, Joseph was warned in a dream to flee to Egypt. That gold financed an unplanned international escape and sustained them during what may have been 8 years away from home. God provided before the need was even known.
Again, the provision had a purpose: preservation of the Savior’s life.
Modern Takeaway
Maybe God has entrusted you with resources lately maybe a bonus, a refund, an inheritance, or a windfall. Ask yourself:
Is this for building something holy? Is this provision for a future need I don’t yet see? Am I tempted to turn it into a golden calf?
God doesn’t just bless, He prepares. Provision is prophetic. But if we aren’t listening, we might melt it down for something shiny instead of sacred.
Ready to Steward What God Has Given You?
If this message spoke to you, you’ll find even more practical insight in my book, The Steward’s Life. It’s a quick read field manual that helps you align your faith and finances in just 12 days—or use it with a group for a 12-week study.
Grab your copy on Amazon here: The Steward’s Life
If you’re part of a church, ministry, or group looking for a speaker who can bring biblical truth, real-life strategy, and a message of hope and stewardship—I’d love to connect.
Book me to speak or schedule a call here:
Let’s build what God is calling you to steward!
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