Bible Pathways 02/13/2002
February 13
Read Numbers 3 -- 4
In Today's Reading:
What connection did the firstborn of all the Israelites have with the Levites in Aaron's family? Read and discover the work assigned to each family in their ministry to God. Note: they didn't ask someone else to do their assignment.
Verses for Today:
As for the sons of Merari. . . . this is the charge of their burden (Numbers 4:29).
Highlights:
Census and duties of the Levites: the Kohathites, the Gershonites, and the Merarites; the redemption of the firstborn.
The Tabernacle and all its furnishings, including the furniture, skins, hangings, cords, boards, posts, and metal sockets, may have weighed several tons. Yet, just three families of the Levite tribe -- the Kohathites, the Gershonites, and the Merarites -- were appointed to transport the Tabernacle and its furnishings throughout the wilderness journey.
The Kohathites were responsible for the few items of furniture. The Gershonites were in charge of the hanging curtains, the coverings of the Tabernacle, and the necessities of the service. The Merarites had to carry all the pillars, boards, bars, sockets, and the heavier parts of the Tabernacle. The Merarites burden was much heavier than that of either the Kohathites or Gershonites. Because of this, four wagons and eight oxen were given to them (see Numbers 7:8).
The Gershonites and Kohathites also had their assignments. The Lord is looking for workers, like the family of Merari, who didn't complain even though their work was heavier and less desirable than the others.
The Old Testament was a shadow of good things to come (Hebrews 10:1). These things were our examples. . . . written for our admonition (1 Corinthians 10:6). No Levite chose his position or was concerned about his retirement, insurance plan, pay raise, or other benefits. The will of God was his only concern. We too are responsible to serve Him the very best that we can where He has placed us. We are to let Him take care of our tomorrows. The Old Testament principles are the foundation of what God expects from His people and His leaders today. He that despised Moses' Law died without mercy (Hebrews 10:28). The Holy Spirit, through the instruction of His Word, is the Source of strength for true Christian service.
The finances and responsibilities of most ministries and churches are usually dependent on the few who count it a privilege to serve the Lord. Today, the majority are in the "grandstands" -- just watching rather than enjoying the satisfaction of serving the Lord.
Let us be like the Merarites, that one day we may hear Jesus say: Well done, good and faithful servant (Matthew 25:21-23).
A Thought from Proverbs: The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is of little worth (10:20).
Christ Portrayed:
By Aaron, the high priest, who was ministered to by the Levites (Numbers 3:6). We serve Christ, our great High Priest (John 12:26; Hebrews 4:14).
Word Studies:
3:10 wait on = have charge; 3:12 matrix = womb; 3:31 charge = responsibility; 3:50 shekel = a weight of silver equal to about four days' wages; 4:3 all that enter into the host = those who qualify to enter the service; 4:6 staves = carrying poles; 4:7 covers to cover = jars for the drink offering; 4:10 bar = a carrying frame; 4:14 fleshhooks = large forks used to handle sacrificial meat; 4:24 for burdens = to carry when on march; 4:32 instruments = furnishings; 4:48 fourscore = 80.
Prayer Needs:
Government Official: De. Anibal Vila (PR) · Pray for your Church · Country: Somalia (7 million) on the Horn of Africa · Major languages: Somali and Arabic · Islam is officially favored and all other religions are opposed · 99.8% Muslim; .1% Christian · Prayer Suggestion: Pray for a greater desire to serve the Lord (Psalms 42:1-2).
Optional Reading: Mark 16
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:9
