We’re studying 1 and 2 Chronicles in the First 5 app, and today I’m sharing a teaching from 1 Chronicles 9. Here’s a preview:
1 Chronicles 9:2 (ESV) “Now the first to dwell again in their possessions in their cities were Israel, the priests, the Levites, and the temple servants.”
Five years ago, our family got a puppy. Samson is a small but mighty furball who brings much joy to our children’s lives, and I’m grateful. But he can be inconvenient at times. Samson has developed gastrointestinal issues and he often makes a mess that I’d rather not clean up.
When I read about the duties performed by the gatekeepers in 1 Chronicles 9, I wonder if they ever felt the same way. I know they were grateful to return from and be restored as the people of God in Jerusalem. But perhaps disappointment crept in when they realized the service their role required.
Some of the tasks listed in this passage aren’t glamorous jobs. I’m not a morning person, so opening the tent of meeting each morning wouldn’t be my first choice. (1 Chronicles 9:27) Leaving home to fulfill a seven-day shift at the gate had to be inconvenient. (1 Chronicles 9:25) The work of organizing utensils, mixing spices and making flat cakes might have grown monotonous. (1 Chronicles 9:28-31)
And yet, we get a glimpse of the significance of the men’s work as their diligence is recorded in the Word of God. In some instances, such as Mattithiah the baker, we even know their names. (1 Chronicles 9:31) These men served sacrificially so that the people could worship God as He had commanded, and God recognized their efforts.
If you’d like to continue reading, head over to First 5 for the rest of the teaching, or download the First 5 app and join us in our study!
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