Be a Kingdom Supporter

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | January 4, 2024 | Nehemiah 11:25-36

KEY VERSE:  Some of the Judean divisions of the Levites were in Benjamin. Nehemiah 11:36 (NKJV)

MESSAGE:                                                                                                 

Embracing the call to dwell in the Holy City of Jerusalem also meant forging new connections while leaving some family members behind. However, this didn't signify a complete severance from the family left outside the holy city; those who willingly chose to reside in Jerusalem would still have family elsewhere.

In ancient times, families were obligated to contribute men of war-going age to the state's army. Regardless of their dwelling place, these families had sons enlisted in the army of Israel. This is reminiscent of the sons of Jesse, who, when David faced Goliath, had all adult sons on the battlefield, with the youngest tending to the father's sheep.

Even among those who volunteered to live in Jerusalem and those living outside, a sense of unity and shared responsibility prevailed. Our key verse highlights that some children of Judah within the divisions of Levites lived in Benjamin and outside Jerusalem. Their interconnectedness demonstrated a collective commitment to the development of Jerusalem for the benefit of all.

The called and the chosen alike share responsibilities in fostering the prosperity of the Holy City, mirroring the commitment required in serving the kingdom of God. Those responding directly to the call and those supporting from outside each have a role to play in ensuring the success of the agenda.

FEET AND HANDS OF THE MESSAGE:

It's possible that you may not serve God directly as an Apostle, Pastor, Evangelist, Teacher, or Prophet, but your contribution to the growth and expansion of the kingdom is still valuable. If you have an interest in ensuring the success of the kingdom's agenda, then it's important to support those who are in the service, because their success will also benefit you. Be a Kingdom supporter and pray for its success.

PRAYER:

Dear Heavenly Father, help me to lend my support to your kingdom agenda in whatever way I can. Make me a kingdom financier and an advocate for the work of ministry. Help me to give my very best to promote the cause of your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: JUDEAN DIVISION OF LEVITES The Key Terms in our phrase for today's word study are explained below:

• Judean (יְהוּדָה - Yehudah): This term relates to the tribe of Judah or the region of Judah. It signifies a specific geographical location.

• Divisions (מַחֲלְקוֹת - Machalqot): This term is associated with divisions or courses, often referring to the organized arrangements or assignments of duties.

• Levites (הַלְוִיִּם - HaLeviyim): Members of the tribe of Levi, who were designated for specific religious duties and service in the Tabernacle or Temple.

The term "Judean" often appears in contexts specifying a connection with the tribe or region of Judah (e.g., 2 Chronicles 20:2).

"Divisions" in the context of the Levites could refer to the assignments and responsibilities given to different families or groups within the tribe of Levi (1 Chronicles 23:6).

The phrase suggests that there were specific arrangements or divisions among the Levites, and these were associated with the region or tribe of Judah. This points to the structured organization and roles assigned to the Levitical priests within God's plan for the restored Jerusalem. Each division had a specific purpose in the worship and service of God. Their connection to Judah emphasizes a shared identity and responsibility within the broader community.

Reflections

In our own lives, do we recognize and appreciate the structured roles and responsibilities that God has assigned us within our communities? How can we, like the Judean divisions of Levites, work together harmoniously to fulfil our unique roles in God's overarching plan?