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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise You are indeed worthy of praise! If David put such thought and planning into worshipping you with music and song, how can I do any less? I will speak of the might of your awesome deeds, and I will declare your greatness! Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised! (Ps 145:3, 6). Today in Your Word Today you told me about David’s preparations for the construction of your temple. This reading teaches me the importance of organization and planning for the future. David worked hard to make sure that Solomon would inherit a functional, efficient and robust administration. David’s organization of the Levites shows that there were many ways to contribute to the ministry of the temple. Some cleaned the courts and chambers (1 Chr 23:28), some helped with cooking the showbread (1 Chr 23:29), some worshipped you with music and song (1 Chr 25), some were gatekeepers (1 Chr 26:1–19), and some were in charge of your treasuries (1 Chr 26:20–28). The rest of the tribes gave tithes to support the Levites and joined with them in worship. In this way, everyone had a part in the work of the ministry. This reminds me that I have a part to play in your service today. Your Spirit has given me a gift that I can use to build up Christ’s body (cf. 1 Cor 12:4–7). I should develop my gift and use it to the best of my ability (Rom 12:4–8). David’s division of responsibilities within the temple is an excellent model of how to administrate with wisdom and fairness. “The musicians were divided into 24 groups to match the 24 groups of Levites (1 Chr 24:7–18). This division of labor gave order to the planning of temple work, promoted excellence by making training easier, gave variety to worship because each group worked a term, and provided opportunities for all to be involved.”[1] Reflection The spoils of war rightfully go to the victorious army, but David and his commanders gave a portion of their plunder to the maintenance of the temple (1 Chr 26:26–27). Like those commanders, I should be eager to give back to you a part of what you have given to me. Request Father, as I read about the preparations for the temple, I’m reminded of the importance of each person doing their part in your service. Help me to use my gifts and abilities to further the work of your ministry. Thanksgiving Thank you for the blessing of being a part of the body of Christ! How wonderful to know that I am a living stone in your spiritual temple (1 Pet 2:4–5). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Together” — Joyce B. Meyers. Meditation Verse: 1 Chronicles 26:4–5. |
[1] (Chronological Life Application Study Bible NLT. Tyndale House Publishers.)