Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."
Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.
Understanding to grow in
In Israel as in the church, God's people were to serve in different roles according to his will and gifting. There were to be 4000 gatekeepers (23v5). The lists seem to be only of the “chief men” or supervisors (26v12). Their gates were assigned by lot showing God's governance, and they oversaw the temple treasuries and the wealth dedicated to God's use after battle. There’s a sense in which gospel ministers are now gatekeepers, guarding access to the temple that is the church, and to the valuable truths of the kingdom (Matt 16v16-20, Matt 13v52). However, the New Jerusalem has no gatekeepers. Its gates will always be open, as there will be no danger of its treasures being stolen (Rev 21v22-27). We also read of the officials and judges (26v29). These Levites would not only administer God’s law and so the king’s justice, but judge disputes, collect tithes etc. Again and again we read of those who were leaders or were appointed because they were “capable” or “able” men, with one being designated a “wise counsellor.” Likewise, every Christian has their place in serving Jesus, but he particularly looks for capable, able and wise individuals “with strength to do the work,” and who are willing to take responsibility and lead (Acts 6v3). It's something to aspire to. Chapter 27 commanders, leaders and overseers. An intriguing note is that in sinfully counting his men (ch. 21), David had limited the counting to those over twenty in order not to imply he didn’t trust God’s promise to make Israel innumerable. This suggests David was aware he was doing wrong when commanding the men be counted. Likewise, we should therefore guard against thinking we can somehow justify our sin by limiting it in degree or even doing something good to offset it. The chapter ends showing the various spheres of responsibility David’s officials had, including counsellors, a guardian for his sons, a close friend and his chief commander. Foreshadowing Christ, his kingdom was a body of many parts in which each had its own place and honour (1 Cor 12). As you read note the qualities that are esteemed in those who serve.1 Chronicles 26-27
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.
Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.