Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 23
For David said, “The Lord, the God of Israel, has given rest to his people, and he dwells in Jerusalem forever. And so the Levites no longer need to carry the tabernacle or any of the things for its service.” (1 Chronicles 23.25-26)
Devotional Thought: A few days ago, we considered how "Things Have a Way of Changing." I have found that is true in our service to the Lord. What I am doing today, I may not be doing tomorrow.
The Twelve Apostles found that out when Jesus ascended to heaven. No longer would they be following Jesus around Galilee, assisting in his ministry. Now they were required to preach the gospel to all creatures and to lead the church themselves.
The Apostle Paul found that out when he was arrested and imprisoned. He no longer was preaching and planting churches. God had a different work for him - writing letters which ultimately became part of the Canon of Scripture.
In the Old Testament, the Levites found that out, too. Their job had been to carry the tabernacle as Israel travelled. But when the temple was built in Jerusalem, they found themselves spiritually "unemployed." But that was not a permanent condition. God is always adding jobs to the economy! God had jobs for those 38,000 unemployed Levites, and King David (with inspiration from the Holy Spirit) laid it out for them in 1 Chronicles 23...
24,000 had "charge of the work in the house of the Lord," taking care of the facility and the materials used in worship.
6,000 were "officers and judges," supervising workers, and helping worshipers to know the way of the Lord.
4,000 were "gatekeepers," ensuring safety and giving physical direction to worshipers.
4,000 were to "offer praises to the Lord with the instruments" - worship leaders!
Are you unemployed or changing employment in the work of the Lord? Don't fret! God has a job for you to do!
Prayer: Lord, how good it is to be a part of God's workforce! Help me - even in times of changing roles - to fulfill my ministry faithfully and effectively. Amen.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 45:1-7
1 My heart overflows with a pleasing theme; I address my verses to the king; my tongue is like the pen of a ready scribe.
2 You are the most handsome of the sons of men; grace is poured upon your lips; therefore God has blessed you forever.
3 Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one, in your splendor and majesty!
4 In your majesty ride out victoriously for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness; let your right hand teach you awesome deeds!
5 Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; the peoples fall under you.
6 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever. The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness;
7 you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions;
Comments