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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise I praise you today as the God who protects me from myself. Your presence in Israel’s camp was dangerous for the people, and you appointed the Levites to guard your Tabernacle so the thoughtless and the curious wouldn’t be killed needlessly. That’s the kind of God you are. You’re always looking out for me, even when I don’t deserve it! Hallelujah! Today in Your Word Today you told me about the Levite census. The Levites had been excluded from the military census because you had taken them instead of the firstborn of Israel, and they belonged to you as living sacrifices. You then gave the Levites to Aaron so they could help the priests and guard the Tabernacle. After the Levites had been counted, the total was compared to the number of firstborn males from the other tribes and the difference was ransomed with money. You then assigned a specific duty to each Levite family. Kohath carried all the holy objects and furnishings, Gershon carried the curtains and coverings, and Merari carried the remaining support pieces of the Tabernacle. As I thought about today’s reading, several things stood out to me: (1) The Levites had a serious ministry, for they had the authority to execute those who tried to violate the Tabernacle (Num 3:10). This reminds me how important spiritual service is in the church. Those in leadership are responsible for the wellbeing of the flock and they watch over my soul. I need to obey and submit to them (Heb 13:17). (2) When you set someone apart for yourself, they could not be released unless you gave permission and allowed redemption. This emphasized the principle of substitution, which is such a wonderful part of the gospel. (3) The excess 273 firstborn were not ignored (Num 3:46–48). You knew each one who belonged to you, and not one was missed or forgotten. This reminds me of Jesus’ comforting words: “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (Luke 12:7). (4) No duty in your service was unimportant. All the menial labor involved in moving and maintaining the Tabernacle was honorable and valuable because it was done for you and in obedience to your will. Reflection The Levite families could have been unhappy with the responsibilities you had assigned them. Do I envy the duties of others and despise the tasks you have given me? Request Father, remind me today that refusing to obey because I feel the task is beneath me is pride and refusing to obey because I feel the task is too hard for me is unbelief. Thanksgiving Thank you so much for your watchful care and provision. As the Psalmist said, “The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life” (Ps 121:7 NIV). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “A Charge to Keep I Have” by Charles Wesley. Meditation Verse: Numbers 4:18–20. |