SOAP 05/07/2016; 1 Chronicles 23:25-26

Today's reading: 2 Samuel 13, 14; Matthew 24*

S) "²⁵ For David said, 'The Lord God of Israel has given rest to His people, and He dwells in Jerusalem forever. ²⁶ Also, the Levites will no longer need to carry the tabernacle and all its utensils for its service.'"

1 Chronicles 23:25-26 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read 1 Chronicles 23

O) The ark of the covenant had been brought into Israel, and David had just completed a census of the Levites. He just ordained the services of gatekeepers, singers, etc. and he noted that many of the Levites would no longer have the same tasks which they had been given. Moses was given instructions for the tabernacle of God, for the manufacturing, construction, and maintenance of the tent of meeting. At that time, a great number of the Levites had jobs, related to the assembly and disassembly of the tent, and how to carry it when the people were traveling. Now, these people would need new roles, because the old form of their ministry was no longer a concern.

A) There are a couple of cautions that I must remember, right from the top. These changes were not moral issues, or changes to law. These were vocational changes, they were evolving roles. Also, these were, in a sense, cosmetic changes. The same work was being done, just in different ways. Nothing about the sacrifices changed. Nothing about the commandments changed. Having said that, this passage is an excellent reminder, to be careful about identity. It's very easy to get wrapped up into thinking that what I do defines who I am. This is not biblical, though. Even with the most positive things, like ministry work, if what I am doing is defining who I am, then when that role is changed I will feel an identity crisis on some level. I must be willing to change what I do, according to need. If my church needs a youth pastor, then that's what I will do. If they no longer need that, but instead need a Bible teacher, then that's what I'll do. God moves and circumstances change. That won't affect who God is, or what He expects morally speaking. However, practically speaking, needs change. I must be willing to serve Him however I can, also according to need.

P) Father, thank You for using me, Lord. I know that there is grace at work, changing me, as I am used for Your purposes. My heart is to spread the gospel, to teach of Your love and mercy. I want to help people, I want to see marriages thriving, I want to see young people learning to love You. I want to see people healed of broken hearts. How the need looks may change, but I know there is always need. Direct me, God. Put me to work. If I need to carry something, let me carry it to Your glory. If I need to open doors, let me open them to Your glory. Use me, however You want. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.