When the Lord invited Israel to contribute for the building of the tabernacle in the wilderness, there was a hearty response. The people "came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord's offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation." They came, both men and women, as many as were willing hearted. Men came with their gifts of gold and silver, choice fabrics, and valuable wood. The rulers brought precious stones, costly spices, and oil for the lights. "And all the women that were wise-hearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which they had spun." They brought "free offerings every morning," until the report was given to Moses, "The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work, which the Lord commanded to make." Ex. 35:21-25; 36:3, 5. This generous-hearted, willing service was pleasing to God; and when the tabernacle was completed, he signified his acceptance of the offering. "A cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle." Ex. 40:34.

De Herren indbød Israel til at hjælpe med at opføre tabernaklet i ørkenen, var svaret hjerteligt. Folk kom ”som i sit hjerte følte sig drevet dertil, og hvis ånd tilskyndede ham, kom med Herrens offerydelse til opførelsen af åbenbaringsteltet og til alt arbejdet derved og til de hellige klæder.” De kom, både mænd og kvinder, så så mange som var villige af hjertet. De kom med deres gaver af guld og sølv, udvalgte klæder og værdifuldt træ. Herskerne bragte dyrebare stene, kostelige krydderier og olie til oplysning. ”Og alle kunstforstandige kvinder spandt med egne hænder og kom med deres spind.” De bragte ”frivillige offergaver hver morgen,” indtil efterretningen blev givet til Moses: »Folket kommer med mere, end der kræves til udførelsen af det arbejde, Herren har påbudt!« 2. Mos. 35,21-25; 36,4. Denne generøse, helhjertede, villige tjeneste var Gud behagelig; og da tabernaklet stod færdigt, underskrev han sin accept for gaven. ”Da dækkede skyen åbenbaringsteltet, og Herrens herlighed fyldte boligen.” 2. Mos. 40, 34.