Talents From God Are For God

Sometimes you will hear the phrase “naturally gifted and talented” to describe someone who excels in a particular ability. The abilities in these individuals come natural for them. They seem to flow and also appear effortless in accomplishments.

The Bible has a word for these talents. It is the Hebrew word hokmah. It is used to describe people who have special ability from God. The first place this word is used is in Exodus with the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness. Exodus 31:1 states, “The LORD said to Moses, ‘See, I have called by name Bezalel…and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability…and all craftsmanship…’” This is the first place in the Bible that someone is filled with the Holy Spirit and it is in context of being equipped  to do a task. The ability to do that task is called hokmah.

This word is used in conjunction with the other words for wisdom because, like the other words, hokmah is from God’s word and for God’s purposes. One of the ways of God is that He gives what is needed before it is needed. And God gives hokmah from His word to equip with His ability for the task at hand. Wisdom is knowing that what you have is from God and for God. This is also called worshiping the Father in spirit and truth.

In the New Testament we call these abilities spiritual gifts. They are abilities and talents that are from God and for God. God’s word gives directions on what and where and when these spiritual abilities are to be engaged. They are empowered by the Holy Spirit and carry out and accomplish His good, pleasing, and perfect will. And it pleases the Father because the task is from Him, for Him, and done by Him through faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. He sees Himself in it and is pleases. He gets the glory and you get the joy! Hallelujah!!!

Today, memorize and meditate on the meaning of Psalm 119:98. It uses the word hokmah.

Tomorrow we will start with that verse and study the wisdom of spiritual warfare.