After reading the end of Genesis I thought I had the perfect solution. When Joseph is finally redeemed from the dungeon, Pharaoh recognizes that God is with Joseph. He had interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams and saved the kingdom of Egypt! When Pharaoh advances Joseph to number two in the kingdom he puts a ring on his finger, dresses him in linen, and puts a gold chain around his nick.
I have too many clothes. The idea of a simple closet full of linen shirts/dresses and a few simple pieces of gold jewelry sounds wonderful. The challenge is that when it’s cold you need to layer a sweater. Then a raincoat is sometimes needed and who does not want a variety of colors and styles to choose from? That is when I got to the end of Genesis and God is describing His favorite building materials for the tabernacle. God had given artistic gifting to the ones He wanted to build it. He called it skill and intelligence. Then God directed the materials for the project. You can read the entire account so I won’t list everything. I will mention the 12 stones to represent the 12 tribes of Israel (including diamonds and emeralds – my favorites). God also prefers blue, purple, and scarlet yarns woven into cloth. He likes fine twined linen thread for embroidery and gold everywhere. Don’t forget the acacia wood. I enjoy how specific He is even in the placement of the stones – four rows of three stones set in gold.
God gives creative/artistic expression and we are made in His image. There is nothing out of place in wearing our best and loving the process.
