Scripture: Their fellow Levites were assigned to all the other duties of the tabernacle, the house of God. But Aaron and his descendants were the ones who presented offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense in connection with all that was done in the Most Holy Place, making atonement for Israel, in accordance with all that Moses the servant of God had commanded. 1 Chronicles 6:48-49
Observation: In documenting the lineages of Levi, the historian documents those with the functions of priest and musicians. God had declared the Levites would serve the needs of the tabernacle, which David and Solomon later extended to the temple, and the priestly line would come from Aaron. There are two lists of priestly lines - one is 22 names long, the other 11 - and it appears the shorter list is perhaps a pre-Davidic list.
These people ... did not have a choice of profession. It may be true that the high priest was such a grand position they would have never wanted to choose anything else, but the point is they didn't get the option. They were the line that would serve, and from birth it was their destiny and design.
Likewise, in Romans 12 Paul encourages a similar attitude with life ... to make our lives a living sacrifice. Effectively, this means to wholly submit to whatever will and plan God has for us, surrendering any self-actualized decision, and simply doing what God has intended for us. This especially manifests in the Church, with whatever gifts we have being absolutely what we should do for the good of the body of Christ. However, it must also apply to all aspects of life. Our "living sacrifice" is to live in the position God - not us - has decided we should live.
Application: I am learning how to live this way ... in the place and position of God's choosing. I have no idea if I am there yet, and that is probably the most difficult part. I can come to grips with the idea that I must not pursue my own ambitions and designs. However, it is hard when I do not get confirmation that I am living within God's design.
Am I in the right place? Am I doing the right things? Am I caring for my family and others as God intends? If I knew the answers were yes, yes, and yes, then I would have no concerns.
The Levites knew they were doing the right things. Paul knew he was doing the right thing. I hope I am doing the right thing, and if I am not I would love to just be guided and told where to go without the pain this time.
Prayer: Lord, I seek only your will for my life, and for my daily walk. That is sincerely all I want. I submit to you, confident that if I live within your perfect will I will indeed find peace and joy and love. I know this to be true. Please provide confirmation. And please do so gently. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment