From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

The Bible speaks approvingly of a man by the name of Bezalel. He worked with metals, stone, and wood. He was filled with the Holy Spirit and used his abilities as a craftsman. Scripture records: “And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to design artistic works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze, in cutting jewels for setting, in carving wood, and to work in all manner of workmanship” (Exodus 31:3–5, NKJV).

Jacob and his sons were shepherds, Joseph a prime minister, Daniel a statesman. Both Joseph and Jesus were carpenters, and many disciples were fishermen. Paul, Priscilla, and Aquila were tent-makers, and Luke was a beloved physician.

The Christian ideal certainly doesn’t demand that a person renounce all interest in the affairs of this life but, rather, that we seek God’s guidance in performing our daily work to the best of our ability; that we keep both our work and our ambitions in subordination to the Lord at all times. Christ offers positive help in our daily living here on Earth and inspires us in our gifts and helps us in our work.

In one of his delightful essays, F.W. Boreham, quoting Isaiah, goes on to recount how the carpenter of Nazareth has encouraged the goldsmiths of the ages. The world’s greatest writers have been inspired by Jesus of Nazareth; the greatest artists, musicians, and sculptors have also been illumined by Him. It is in our daily tasks and in the way we face difficulties that the world will see Christ in us.

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)