What A strange command! Slaves were to ask their masters for gold and silver and fine material! Why should they have to carry such things as they were fleeing from their oppressors? Why, Lord, the extra burdens?

The Israelites did not understand why they needed these things; but knowing that it was what the Lord wanted them to do, they did it. Only in the wilderness did they learn what God had in mind. They were not carrying luxuries for themselves but necessities for building the beautiful tabernacle for God. If they had not obeyed God, they would not have had the precious materials to give.

Like the Israelites at the Exodus, we may not know why God has told us to do certain things. However, if we do what God says, we will be better prepared for what lies ahead.

Perhaps in the wilderness of our daily lives we will eventually see why. But, even if we do not, doing what God wants us to do is always the best way in everything.