We continue with our readings in 1 Chronicles, and today we come to chapter 6 where we see the descendants of Levi. In verses 1-15, we see a list of the high priestly line from Eleazar in verse 4 to Jehozadak, who was carried “into exile by the hand of Nebuchadnezzar” (verse 15). Then the writer presents the lines of Gershon (verses 16-21); Kohath (verses 22-28); and Merari (verses 29-30). From verses 31 to 46, we observe the record of the musicians who were assigned by David to the music ministry in the temple. Verses 48-53 record the names of those Levites – the sons of Aaron – who were responsible to "present offerings on the altar of burnt offering and the altar of incense – making atonement for Israel” (verse 49). Chapter 6 concludes with the record of territorial “settlements allotted to the descendants of Aaron” (verses 54-81). Although we recognize that this chapter does not contain the most exciting reading, nevertheless we understand that God placed it here in His Word for our edification and understanding. It shows us God’s concern for historical truth and the accurate record of history. God is concerned about details.
In today’s section of Psalm 89, verses 30-37, I appreciated God’s direct promise of faithfulness to His covenant with David – and as it is directly given to David, then by virtue of God’s holy character – it is indirectly meant for us (verse 35). Notice God’s solemn promise: “I will not take my love from him, nor will I ever betray my faithfulness. I will not violate my covenant or alter what my lips have uttered. Once for all, I have sworn by my holiness – and I will not lie to David – that his line will continue forever” (verses 33-36). God has made unalterable promises to all men, both Jew and Gentile alike, and He has "established His Word forever like the moon, the faithful witness in the sky” (verse 37). Whenever we see the moon, we should recall His promises, faithfulness, reliability, and commitment to us. He may punish our unfaithfulness, but He will never retreat from His Word. This truth provides great comfort when discouragements come and our lives seem to fall apart. Thank You, Lord, for Your promises!
In Romans 11:33-12:21, we see Paul’s central theme of praise for God’s unsearchable wisdom and gifts, and his call to a life - not a death - of sacrifice. A living sacrifice is the epitome of worship that pleases God. We best worship God when we align our daily lives with His will and with His precepts for holy living. In other words, we sanctify the secular part of life and make it holy - we elevate and live every area of our lives up to the holy level of pleasing God. God has given us the privilege to be “grafted into His olive tree" (cf., Romans 11:11-31). In Romans 12, Paul gives us several examples about how we can do this, and his list is not exhaustive. He says, for example, among other things, “do not be conformed to this world” (verse 2); “do not think of yourself more highly than you ought” (verse 3); “use your gifts in proportion to your faith” (verse 6); “be devoted to one another” (verse 10); “live in harmony with one another” (verse 16); and “do not take revenge” (verse 19). The dead cannot offer any of these sacrifices.
.
Comments