1.  Zealousness in giving and serving

Zealousness is more than just thought or good intentions. It is demonstrated through action. The Israelites responded with willing hearts to give and serve in the construction of the Tabernacle. They brought offerings of materials daily (Exod 36:3). It was so overwhelming that Moses had to command them to stop giving (Exod 36:6-7). This rare example in Scripture shows the people's extraordinary willingness to give sacrificially for the Lord’s work. Skilled workers like Bezaleel and Aholiab, endowed with the Spirit of God and wisdom, served willingly and applied their abilities to do as God commanded (Exod 36:1-2).

We must consider service and giving as opportunities and privileges to glorify God, and be willing to give and serve without seeking recognition or rewards.

2.  Zealousness in details

The Israelites meticulously followed God’s instructions as given to them in Exodus 26, matching every measurement, material, and design to perfection (Exod 36:8-38). The intricate and beautiful design of the Tabernacle highlighted God's holiness and wisdom. It demonstrated how human zeal must reflect divine order.

Zealousness without the wisdom of God can lead to problems. An example is the Ecumenical Movement, which began with good intentions but led to doctrinal compromise as churches set aside foundational truths in favour of cooperation. Zeal that ignores God’s principles can harm, rather than glorify, God’s name. We must always align creativity or innovation in ministry with biblical principles and avoid prioritizing human preferences over God’s instructions. We must also pay attention to details, recognizing that small acts of obedience matter to God.

3.  Zealousness in hard work

Zealousness for God requires diligent and tireless effort. The construction of the Tabernacle illustrates the necessity of hard work in God’s service. The skilled craftsmen worked with precision, creating intricate designs and assembling components with care (Exod 36:8-38).

In the ministry, tasks such as preparing Sunday school materials, organising events and so on, though tedious, carry spiritual significance. Cutting corners in service, whether due to laziness or indifference, diminishes the value of our work. Hard work, done with the right motives and in the right manner, honours God and leads to spiritual blessings. We must not mistake busyness for meaningful service. We must focus on what truly pleases the Lord.