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Numbers-18

Sacred Service: A Devotional Study on Numbers 18​

Introduction:​

As the Israelites continued their journey to the promised land, Moses received a divine revelation outlining the sacred service of the Levites. Numbers 18 details how the Levites would take over the role of the Kohathite clan as ancient Israel's primary camp attendants. As we delve into Numbers 18, let's explore the profound spiritual insights embedded in this sacred service.

Section 1: Tithe for The Lord (Numbers 18:21)​

Devotional Thought: Moses recalled a special commandment from the Lord in Deuteronomy, "You shall surely tithe all the increase of your grain that the field produces year by year." (Dtr. 14:22) Numbers 18 takes this commandment to the next level by stating that the Levites are to receive this sacred tithe. This tithe equips the Levites to tend to the service of the sanctuary. Let us be mindful of our tithing today and trust in the Lord's provision.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you approach the sacrament of tithing?
  • How can you see tithing as a means of serving and sacrificing to the Lord?

Section 2: The Duties of the Levites (Numbers 18:2-7)​

Devotional Thought: God instructed Moses to set aside the Levites for His service. This sacred service would comprise moving the tabernacle, setting it up, and taking it down. Furthermore, the Levites would bear the loads of the tabernacle. Consider the weight of this servitude. The Levites were chosen by God to move, set up, and tear down the earthly representation of His presence. Let us appreciate the sacrifices these Levites made to serve God's people.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do we demonstrate visible sacrifices in our service to God and His people?
  • In what ways can we find trust and strength in the Lord to carry burdens and accept sacrifices in our spiritual journeys?

Section 3: Dedication of the Firstborn (Numbers 18:15-16)​

Devotional Thought: Other than the Levites, the firstborn of all Israelites are considered holy to the Lord. Moses recorded God's commandment to redeem every firstborn son for the Lord with a little over a shekel. This redemption would signify the Lord's ownership over God's people. Consider the profound connection between this dedication and the sacrifice of the firstborn son in the Passover story.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you understand the relation between the redemption of the firstborn and the sacrifice of a Passover lamb in the Passover story?
  • In what ways can we appreciate the Lord's ownership and blessing in our lives?

Section 4: The Lord's Portion (Numbers 18:21-24)​

Devotional Thought: God's special commandment regarding the tithe reinforces His ownership over His people. This sacred portion belongs to God, reminding us that we should never regard it as common property to be used for lesser gods or purposes. As today's faithful stewards, let us honor and prudently take care of the Lord's portions.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we honor and honorably steward the Lord's portion today?
  • How can we differentiate between the Lord's portion and our own disposable income?

Conclusion:​

As we end our study on Numbers 18, let's reflect on the sacrificial and holy service required by the Levites. The Levites' duties were arduous, yet their service to the Lord and His people was holy and pleasing to God. Let us recognize the weight of our own service to the Lord today, acknowledging that we, too, have a sacred duty to serve and honor God with our time, talents, and resources.