“Take a sacred offering for the Lord. Let those with generous hearts present the following gifts to the Lord: gold, silver, and bronze;”
‭‭‬‬

Exodus‬ ‭35‬:‭5‬ ‭NLT

God doesn’t want automatons to be his followers. He has a deep and profound love for us that is characterized by self sacrifice. It therefore stands to reason that he isn’t satisfied with a relationship that is under compulsion. In Galatians 6, Paul expounds on this subject noting that a cheerful heart must be devoid of reluctance and compulsion. Here we see this at play in the Old Testament as well. Time and time again, it is clear that God doesn’t want that type of relationship. What he does invite is all people who have a love for him to not only give to him, but to participate fully in his blessings with him. Instead of erecting the tabernacle himself, ex nihilo, he calls those who loved him to be a part of his grand design. He even equips them to be able to serve in all their capacities so that they will be able to do it well and enjoy the fruits of their labor. And the things in which he allows this is not in minor and trivial things. He allows those with a giving heart to build something set aside for worship and adoration. He allows the cheerful giver to become a part of the holiness process and the sanctification of all their people. This isn’t attained by being worthy through good deeds, but by good spirit.

God’s Desired Relationship: God desires a relationship with humans characterized by love and free will, not compulsion.

Biblical Examples of God’s Relationship: God’s desire for a loving relationship is evident in both the Old and New Testaments, as seen in the construction of the tabernacle and the concept of cheerful giving.

God’s Invitation to Participation: God invites those who love him to participate in his blessings and work, equipping them to serve and enjoy the fruits of their labor.