- But the priests were too few and could not flay all the burnt offerings, so until other priests had consecrated themselves, their brothers the Levites helped them, until the work was finished—for the Levites were more upright in heart than the priests in consecrating themselves. 2 Chronicles 29:34 – Most likely the reason why there wasn’t enough priests to handle all the offerings coming in was because the priests, as a class, were probably more deeply involved in the sin and corruption the previous king brought. They would have been more cold to the new king’s ways and refused to turn from their sin and consecrate themselves for God’s work. Like King Hezekiah we too can try to change the atmosphere and direction a people or place is going, but we too will run into “priests” who don’t want to change. Priests who enjoyed the old ways and don’t see the value of the change. Priests who as a result of their refusal to change will cause others to have to step into their place because things are not moving like they should. We must expected “priests” like this to be a part of the changes where trying to bring, just don’t let it stop you. For Hezekiah he knew his kingdom needed a change of beginning to follow God. You know certain areas in your story need a change to. Your home being more Christ centered, your workplace being more of a mission field, your school being more filled with kindness. Expect pushback and expect people won’t like the change, know though God will provide and bless when we seek to change a place to make it more of a house of worship for Him. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 1543
- My sons, do not now be negligent, for the Lord has chosen you to stand in his presence, to minister to him and to be his ministers and make offerings to him. 2 Chronicles 29:11 – We are introduced again to a new king, and this new king is a solid and faithful king. Hezekiah, within the first month of his reign, reopens the doors to the temple that were shut, cleanses the temple from all uncleanliness, and reignites the worship of his people towards the Lord. In our verse the king is speaking to the priests and Levites who were to take on the task of getting the temple, and the people, ready for worship once again. He said now is not the time to be negligent and forgetful about your duties. God has chosen you, this is your time and your task, to stand before Him and serve Him and to make offerings for the people. You know your role and you know now is the time to carry it out. Tomorrow isn’t what God is calling you to; He’s calling you to today. Allow that message to sink in for us as well. Our role isn’t to be workers within the temple in Jerusalem, nor to make offerings like these priests were doing. We do though have a task given to us by the Lord to share His good news with the world around us. With that message in mind, reread the passage above. My children, don’t be negligent with this responsibility. God has chosen you as His church to proclaim His gospel message. Tomorrow isn’t what God is calling you to; He’s calling you to today. Be mindful today of how you can speak of Jesus to those around you and how you can help them see the goodness of God through you. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 2618
Daily DEVO 